The Benin–Nigeria Business Forum, organised by the Glo-Djigbe Industrial Zone (GDIZ) in collaboration with Afreximbank, the Investment and Export Promotion Agency of Benin (APIEx), and the Deposit and Consignments Fund of Benin (CDC Benin), served as a high-level platform aimed at deepening economic cooperation, strengthening cross-border trade, and promoting private-sector–driven growth between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
As a key stakeholder along the Badagry–Seme border axis, the Badagry Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (BACCIMA) proudly participated in the Forum, which brought together government institutions, chambers of commerce, industry leaders, investors, and development partners from both countries.
Strong Messages of Regional Readiness for Business
During his goodwill message, the President of BACCIMA stated that Badagry is ready to do business with the Republic of Benin, emphasising the area’s strategic location, vibrant trading community, and commitment to strengthening cross-border commerce.
This position aligned with the goodwill remarks of Engr. Leye Kupoluyi, President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), who affirmed that Lagos State is open and ready for business with Benin and the wider West African sub-region.
Similarly, the President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Engr. Jani Ibrahim, who was represented by the Second Deputy President, Asiwaju Olawale Cole, reiterated NACCIMA’s commitment to regional trade integration and private-sector collaboration. The Director-General of NACCIMA, Engr Sola Obadimu was also in attendance, alongside other distinguished dignitaries.
Advancing Regional Trade Facilitation
BACCIMA continues to champion the formalisation of informal cross-border trade, recognising its importance to livelihoods and regional economic growth. The Chamber actively advocates for the reduction of multiple checkpoints along the Badagry–Seme corridor to facilitate the free movement of goods, persons, and services, in line with ECOWAS trade protocols.
In addition, BACCIMA has consistently pushed for the adoption of Biometric Identification Cards for cross-border traders along this axis. This advocacy recently led to the launch of the biometric identification initiative by the Nigerian Immigration Service, a major step toward enhancing border security and trade efficiency.
Strengthening Institutional Partnerships
The Forum builds on the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between BACCIMA and the Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI Benin), reinforcing a shared commitment to promoting bilateral trade and investment.
It also aligns with BACCIMA’s earlier engagement with the Glo-Djigbe Industrial Zone (GDIZ), where opportunities for industrial collaboration, manufacturing, and investment within a structured industrial ecosystem were explored.
BACCIMA also acknowledges the important role of the Federation of West African Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FEWACCI), led by Amb. Aminou Akadiri in advancing private-sector cooperation and regional economic integration across West Africa.
Looking Ahead: BACCIMA International Trade Fair
As part of its commitment to deepening regional trade, BACCIMA is preparing to host the forthcoming BACCIMA International Trade Fair, scheduled to hold from May 8–17, 2026, under the theme “Trading Without Borders: Empowering Businesses for Regional and Global Markets” which will provide a platform for businesses across Nigeria, Benin, and the wider West African region to connect, collaborate, and access new markets.
The Benin–Nigeria Business Forum represents another important milestone in strengthening bilateral trade relations, unlocking economic opportunities along the Badagry axis, and promoting sustainable prosperity across borders.