ODUACCIMA, Giessen-Friedberg Chamber Join Forces to Boost Regional Commerce

In a bold move to expand regional trade and uplift small businesses, the Odu’a Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ODUACCIMA) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Chamber of Industry and Commerce Giessen-Friedberg, Germany.

The collaboration was cemented during the 65th Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), held on Wednesday at the Banquet Hall, Ilorin, Kwara State.

The partnership is part of the Chamber Collaboration Project (KVP) in Nigeria, aimed at strengthening the institutional capacity of chambers of commerce and opening new doors for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through practical mentorship and cross-border cooperation.

Speaking during the event, ODUACCIMA President, Alhaji Wasiu Olaleye, described the alliance as a milestone in the chamber’s quest to deepen regional commerce and build resilient business ecosystems.

“This collaboration is a game-changer. It opens new channels for our members to access training, funding and international markets. We’re building a stronger chamber that serves not just its members, but the entire economy,” Olaleye said.

He was accompanied by the 1st Deputy President, Hon. Olumide Araoyinbo, and 2nd Deputy President, Alhaji Olufemi Hassan, both of whom reiterated the need for MSMEs to benefit from global expertise, export readiness programmes and policy reforms.

Araoyinbo noted, “We are entering a future where local businesses must compete and thrive globally. With this partnership, we are laying a solid foundation for that future.”

KVP Project Coordinator, Mrs. Nele Lahman-Muniru, commended ODUACCIMA’s leadership for embracing the opportunity to build bridges across borders. She said the Giessen-Friedberg Chamber is ready to offer practical support that will make Nigerian chambers more effective and people-focused.

“We are here to support growth through mentorship, shared learning and strategic development. It’s not just about structures, but about people and sustainable progress,” Lahman-Muniru stated.

The partnership will centre on three key areas: leadership and staff development, improved financial access for small businesses and strategies for enhancing trade competitiveness within and beyond Nigeria.

ODUACCIMA expressed gratitude to the German delegation for their visit and pledged commitment to leveraging the partnership for long-term impact.

“We are not looking for handouts. We are seeking partnerships that will bring innovation, structure and growth. This is just the beginning,” said Alhaji Hassan.

Tags: ODUACCIMA, Giessen-Friedberg, Germany, Regional Trade, MSMEs, NACCIMA, KVP Project, Ilorin, Business Collaboration, Chamber Reform, Export Readiness, Financial Literacy, Capacity Building