In a pivotal event aimed at fostering economic ties between Europe and Nigeria, Eurocham Nigeria successfully organized its Annual Stakeholders Conference on January 31, 2024. The conference, held under the theme “Sustainable Business Growth,” brought together distinguished speakers, industry leaders, and government officials for a comprehensive exploration of strategies to drive economic prosperity.
The welcome address was delivered by Her Excellency, Samuela Isopi, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS. Isopi highlighted the substantial contribution of the EU private sector to Nigeria’s economy and underscored the critical role of sustainable business practices in the nation’s development.
Held at the Alliance Francais in the Mike Adenuga Center in Ikoyi, Lagos, the conference witnessed the participation of key stakeholders, government representatives, and industry leaders. The Executive Governor of Lagos State, H.E. Babajide Sanwo Olu, was represented by Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, the Honourable Commissioner of Cooperatives, Commerce, Trade, and Investment (MCCTI) Lagos State. In her Special Address, she acknowledged the significant role European companies play in Lagos’s economic prosperity and outlined the government’s commitment to creating an investment-friendly environment.
Renowned keynote speakers, including Ugo Dre (CEO of Nairametrics) and Ayodele Subair (Chairman of Lagos State Internal Revenue Service), provided expert analyses on economic trends, sustainable business growth strategies, and the importance of tax compliance.
The panel session, titled “Sustainable Business Growth in a Challenging Macro Economic Environment,” featured distinguished panelists such as Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Aisha Rimi (CEO of Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission), Peder Pedersen (Managing Director of Arla Foods), Temidayo Obisan (Executive Commissioner of Securities and Exchange Commission), and Charles Odii (CEO/Director General of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria). Moderated by Olakunle Olusanya, Director Legal, Public Affairs & General Secretary Fan Milk (Danone), the discussion delved into sustainable practices and strategies for navigating economic challenges.
The conference facilitated a dynamic dialogue on responsible business growth and collaboration between European and Nigerian enterprises. Participants included CEOs of Eurocham Nigeria Members, European diplomatic missions, the EU Delegation to Nigeria, Embassies, and Consulates. Eurocham President Yann Gilbert expressed satisfaction with the robust outcome and commitment to advancing sustainable business practices. Despite being just over five years old, Eurocham Nigeria continues to grow in membership and engagement in public-private dialogue, remaining steadfast in its mission to promote responsible and inclusive economic growth. The contributions of esteemed speakers and participants were acknowledged with gratitude, marking a significant milestone in Eurocham’s commitment to shaping the future of sustainable business in Nigeria.
Credit: Nairametrics