By Chioma Vivian James
… Courtesy Visit Reinforces Strategic Vision for Regional Trade, Institutional Growth and Stronger Private Sector Collaboration
In a demonstration of purposeful leadership, institutional cohesion and a shared commitment to advancing regional commerce, the President of the Nigeria–Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NB-CCI), Alhaji Fatai Adegboyega Shokunbi, led a high-powered delegation on a strategic courtesy visit to one of the Chamber’s distinguished Board Members and Deputy President for Trade Missions and Events, Mrs. Ngozi Oyewole.
The visit formed part of the Chamber’s ongoing Board engagement and institutional bonding initiative, designed to strengthen collaboration among its leadership while fostering a united vision for promoting bilateral trade, investment and sustainable economic development between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
Accompanying the President were the Director-General of the Chamber, Mr. Emmanuel Essien, and the Deputy President for Business Development and Partnerships, Ambassador Nicky Maxwell.
The delegation’s first stop was the corporate headquarters of NOXIE Limited, NOXIE Court, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, where they were warmly received by Mrs. Oyewole and members of her management team.
During a guided tour of the company’s facilities, the delegation gained first-hand insight into the operations of one of Nigeria’s indigenous manufacturing success stories. Specialising in the production of premium-quality furniture and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), NOXIE Limited has established itself as a trusted manufacturing brand serving a diverse portfolio of public and private sector clients across Nigeria.
The visitors commended the company’s commitment to quality, innovation, professionalism and local content development, describing it as a shining example of the ingenuity and resilience of Nigerian entrepreneurs.
Speaking during the visit, President Shokunbi praised Mrs. Oyewole for building an enterprise that not only creates employment but also contributes significantly to Nigeria’s industrial growth and economic diversification.
He noted that indigenous companies like NOXIE Limited embody the spirit of enterprise that the Nigeria–Benin Chamber seeks to promote through stronger bilateral business cooperation.
According to him, “Businesses such as NOXIE Limited demonstrate the remarkable capacity of Nigerian entrepreneurs to compete, innovate and create value. These are the kinds of enterprises that inspire confidence in our economy and reinforce the Chamber’s commitment to promoting investment, industrialisation and cross-border commercial opportunities.”
Following the facility tour, Mrs. Oyewole hosted the delegation to a luncheon at her residence in Ikoyi, Lagos, where discussions shifted from operational excellence to the broader strategic future of the Chamber.
The relaxed atmosphere provided an ideal platform for frank and forward-looking conversations on strengthening the Chamber’s governance structure, expanding membership across both countries, improving value delivery to members, deepening partnerships with governments and the private sector, and positioning the Nigeria–Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry as the leading bilateral Chamber of Commerce in West Africa.
President Shokunbi stressed that the Chamber’s long-term success would depend on collective leadership, active Board participation and an unwavering commitment to institutional excellence.
He reaffirmed that every member of the Board has a vital role to play in building a dynamic organisation capable of unlocking new opportunities for businesses operating within the Nigeria–Benin economic corridor.
Providing updates on the Chamber’s ongoing transformation agenda, Director-General Mr. Emmanuel Essien highlighted several strategic initiatives already underway, including the deployment of a fully automated digital platform designed to improve operational efficiency and member engagement.
He also disclosed that preparations are in top gear for forthcoming engagements with government agencies, private sector stakeholders and development partners in both Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, all aimed at accelerating trade facilitation, investment promotion and regional business collaboration.
Ambassador Nicky Maxwell underscored the importance of sustained engagement among members of the Chamber’s leadership, noting that regular interaction builds trust, encourages innovation and strengthens the collective capacity of the Board to deliver on its mandate.
He described the courtesy visit as an important investment in institutional unity and strategic leadership.
Responding, Mrs. Ngozi Oyewole expressed deep appreciation to the President and members of the delegation for the thoughtful visit.
She reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to the Chamber’s vision and pledged her continued support toward building a vibrant, credible and globally respected institution that will drive trade, investment and economic cooperation between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
She stressed that stronger collaboration among Board members would enhance the Chamber’s effectiveness and create greater opportunities for businesses seeking to expand across borders within West Africa.
The visit also highlighted the Chamber’s deliberate efforts to leverage the diverse expertise, experience and professional networks of its Board members in advancing regional economic integration and private sector development.
As the Nigeria–Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry continues to consolidate its position following its recent accreditation by the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), initiatives such as this reinforce its commitment to building a united, innovative and forward-looking institution.
Beyond a routine courtesy call, the engagement symbolised the Chamber’s determination to cultivate strong internal relationships, celebrate entrepreneurial excellence and foster a leadership culture anchored on collaboration, innovation and shared purpose.
With a renewed focus on strengthening the Nigeria–Benin economic corridor, expanding trade opportunities and facilitating investment partnerships, the Chamber remains firmly committed to creating an enabling platform where businesses from both nations can thrive, compete and contribute meaningfully to the economic prosperity of the West African region.
Together, the Nigeria–Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry is laying the foundation for a stronger regional economy, deeper commercial partnerships and a more prosperous future for businesses and citizens across Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
