Economy
THE Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) says it will expand its United Kingdom (UK) network, deepen trade facilitation and strengthen strategic partnerships to boost Nigeria-UK trade and investment.
The President of the chamber, Mr Abimbola Olashore, disclosed this at the 47th Annual General Meeting of the NBCC on Tuesday in Lagos.
Olashore said the chamber had made significant progress in implementing the strategic priorities outlined a year ago to build a stronger, more influential and member-focused organisation.
He said the chamber strengthened its governance structure by reinforcing the executive committee as the principal driver of strategic decision-making while improving accountability, committee oversight and council participation.
According to him, the chamber also audited and restructured its programmes, expanded its UK chapter, strengthened engagement with government stakeholders, enhanced membership value and improved its financial resilience.
“While much remains to be accomplished, the foundations we have laid over the past year have positioned the chamber for sustainable growth, greater relevance and increased impact,” he said.
Olashore said the chamber’s second-year agenda would focus on consolidating the gains achieved through business development, executive education and entrepreneurship initiatives.
He said the chamber would also deepen partnerships with government institutions, development finance organisations and the private sector to unlock more trade and investment opportunities.
According to him, the NBCC Academy will be further developed to strengthen executive education and capacity building for businesses.
Olashore said preparations had commenced for the chamber’s Golden Jubilee celebration in 2027, with plans to establish a dedicated sinking fund to ensure long-term financial sustainability and asset maintenance.
He added that the chamber would host the next edition of its Meet the Governor Series in September, featuring the Governor of Abia State, to showcase the state’s investment opportunities and economic priorities.
“Our flagship programmes will continue to serve as vehicles for thought leadership, policy engagement and investment promotion, while reinforcing the chamber’s position as the foremost platform for bilateral trade and investment engagement,” he said.
The chamber’s Honorary Treasurer, Mr David Brown, said prudent financial management had strengthened its financial position despite prevailing macroeconomic challenges.
Brown said the chamber repaid its outstanding N8 million bank loan during the year, leaving it debt-free while improving liquidity and maintaining healthy cash reserves.
He said the chamber generated N655 million in revenue in 2025, representing a 32 per cent increase over the previous year, and recorded a net surplus of N48 million.
According to him, the improved performance was driven by stronger programme participation, increased subscription income and lower finance costs.
Brown said the chamber would continue to diversify its income base and grow passive investment earnings to support its long-term sustainability and programmes promoting Nigeria-UK trade and investment. (NAN)
F.O
Tags: Deepen trade ties NBCC UK network