Nigerian youth entrepreneurs and business leaders concluded a six-day Regional Trade Mission across Benin, Togo, and Ghana, connecting with key stakeholders, forging trade partnerships, and exploring opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area AfCFTA.
Coordinated by ODUACCIMA, ABEOCCIMA, LCCI, and the NACCIMA Youth Entrepreneurs South West and Ogun State, the mission promoted collaboration, innovation, and youth-led enterprise in regional economic growth.
The delegation began in the Republic of Benin, where they were welcomed at CCI du Benin, Delegation d’Ouémé Plateau in Porto-Novo. President Alfred Dedji Houndegla said the chambers must continue strengthening ties.
“Our partnership with Nigerian chambers remains valuable. We believe this mission will open new doors for cooperation and boost regional business relations,” he said.
One of the key engagements in Benin was the visit to Songhai Farms. Rev Father Godfrey Nzamujo spoke on the importance of sustainable agriculture to Africa’s development.
“Innovation and sustainability are not optional for Africa. They are the foundation for securing our food systems and building a stronger economy,” he said.
More than one hundred Beninese entrepreneurs joined the team for business to business sessions in Cotonou. Pastor Ibrahim Bada, a Nigerian entrepreneur on the mission, said the meetings were encouraging.
“The level of engagement here shows the readiness of both countries to work together. These interactions will lead to partnerships that help young entrepreneurs grow,” he said.
The delegation moved to Togo, where officials at the Togolese Ministry of Agriculture in Lomé discussed regional agricultural trade and youth involvement.
Nigerian agro entrepreneur Prince Ifeoluwa Adesanya, who trades in palm oil, hibiscus, scent leaf, and ginger, said the discussions were timely.
“What we are seeing here is a clear message that West Africa must work together. Collaboration is key if we want our agro exports to grow and reach new markets,” he said.
In Ghana, the team participated in the Agrofood and Plastics International Conference and later visited the Aquaculture Fair at the World Trade Centre in Accra.
The engagements connected delegates with industry players in fisheries, processing, packaging, and export logistics.
The mission ended with meetings at the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, Ghana Customs, the Food and Drugs Authority, the Ghana Export Promotion Authority, and the Ghana Standards Authority. Delegates were briefed on investment processes, export standards, and access to the Ghanaian market.
A visit to the Nigeria House rounded off the day where the Acting High Commissioner received the team.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Engr Segun Bolaji appreciated the support from international partners.
“This mission reflects what young entrepreneurs can achieve when given the right guidance and opportunities. The support we receive continues to prepare us for export readiness and long term business success,” he said.
The team recognised the KVP Project Team, IHK Giessen Friedberg, BMZ, and the Federal Government of Germany for their steady support in training, exchange programmes, and trade facilitation.
The Regional Trade Mission 2025 strengthened alliances, broadened knowledge exchange, and empowered youth entrepreneurs, setting a positive course for Nigeria’s participation in regional trade under AfCFTA.
