Monday, 27th October 2025 – The ODUACCIMA-led Nigerian trade delegation continued its regional mission across West Africa, with the second day of activities taking place in Cotonou, the economic hub of the Republic of Benin.

The day began with a courtesy visit to the National Headquarters of the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie du Bénin (CCI Bénin), where the delegation was warmly received by Monsiuer Casimir Migan, the First Vice President of CCI Bénin and members of the chamber’s executive committee. The meeting marked a significant moment in fostering stronger economic and institutional partnerships between Nigerian and Beninese business communities.

In his opening remarks, Monsiuer Casimir Migan, the First Vice President of CCI Bénin commended the Nigerian delegation for its vision and commitment to regional cooperation. He emphasized the need for continuous collaboration between the chambers of commerce in both countries, noting that the private sector remains a key driver of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He further encouraged joint initiatives that would facilitate cross-border investments, trade fairs, exchange programs, and capacity development—especially in critical sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, renewable energy, logistics, and creative industries.

Following the formal session, the delegation participated in a vibrant Business-to-Business (B2B) networking forum organized by CCI Bénin. The event brought together over 100 Beninese entrepreneurs and business representatives from various sectors, providing a fertile ground for dialogue, collaboration, and partnership building.

The atmosphere was charged with innovation and mutual curiosity as Nigerian and Beninese entrepreneurs exchanged ideas, product samples, business insights, and contact information. Several participants explored opportunities in export-import partnerships, agro-processing value chains, textile exchange, and packaging solutions, signaling the birth of new bilateral trade relationships between both nations.

In his remarks, Pastor Ibrahim Bada, Head of the Nigerian Delegation and First Deputy President of ABEOCCIMA, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to building stronger economic and commercial bridges across the region. He noted that such engagements were essential for youth-led enterprises and SMEs to scale up and penetrate new markets under AfCFTA.

The day concluded with a networking lunch hosted by CCI Bénin, offering an informal platform for delegates to deepen discussions and consolidate emerging partnerships. The warm hospitality extended by the Beninese hosts reflected their eagerness for sustained engagement and regional solidarity.

The delegation departed Cotonou inspired by the success of the day’s engagements, with renewed determination to build actionable frameworks for trade cooperation, capacity exchange, and sustainable enterprise growth across West Africa.