By Henry Oqua
In a bid to drive economic growth and ensure sustainability, Edo State has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the organized private sector. Mr. Kelvin Uwaibi, the Managing Director of Edo Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO), assured the private sector in Edo State of continued support and partnership with the government. His statement came during the 58th Annual General Meeting of the Benin Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (BENCCIMA) held on May 25th, 2023, at the Chamber’s Secretariat in Benin City. The event witnessed the presence of government officials, business leaders, and representatives from the entire business community of Edo State and Nigeria.
Mr Uwaibi commended BENCCIMA for its significant contributions to the development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the overall economy of Edo State and Nigeria. He expressed appreciation for the fruitful collaboration between BENCCIMA and the Edo State Government, urging the newly elected President of the Chamber to build upon this relationship for the benefit of Chamber members and the broader business community. Hon. Uwaibi emphasized that purposeful collaboration between the public and private sectors is key to effectively growing the economy.
During the meeting, the handover note of the past President, late Pharm. (Mrs.) Aina Omo-Ojeonu, was presented, highlighting the key achievements of her administration. These achievements included the construction of eleven new stores to augment the Chamber’s operational income, the establishment of a modern Secretariat with five offices and a conference room, the successful organization of the Edo Trade Fair in collaboration with notable organizations, and improved relationships with various stakeholders including government bodies and chambers of commerce at regional and national levels.
Additionally, the outgoing administration facilitated the training and certification of twelve BENCCIMA members in Alternative Dispute Resolution, with support from GIZ. The election of Hon. (Barr.) Austin Atakpu as the 16th President of BENCCIMA marked the culmination of the event.
In his acceptance speech, President Austin Atakpu expressed gratitude to the Chamber members for their democratic mandate and acknowledged the peaceful and fair election process. He acknowledged the Chamber’s progress over its 58 years of existence but recognized the need for further development in infrastructure and the execution of programs and activities within Edo State. President Atakpu outlined his vision to create a well-organized Chamber of Commerce that would effectively serve its members and the larger society. He emphasized the importance of strategic planning, partnership with government at all levels, and a receptive approach to ideas and suggestions.
The Annual General Meeting concluded with the election and swearing-in of the new executive council members, as per the Chamber’s Memorandum and Articles of Association. The newly elected council members assumed their respective positions, including Hon. (Barr.) Austin Atakpu as President, Engr. Godwin Omoregie Eki as 1st Deputy President, and Barr. Alex Eghosa Aganmwonyi as 2nd Deputy President, Pastor O.A. Balogun, Sir (Dr.) B.J. Braie, 6. Mr. Jonathan Alele Oboite, Hon. (Barr.) Igbuan Ilofuan as Vice Presidents of the chamber, Lady Taiye Agbontaen as its Treasurer, and Mr. Andrew Odihi Ogiamien and Mr. Ekpen Isoken Odemwingie as Elected Council Members.
The corporate vice president positions were assigned to key individuals and organizations in various sectors, highlighting their expertise and dedication to driving growth. Mr. Victor Ayemere (Zeenab Foods Limited) – Vice President, International Business, Chief Edobor Ozakpolor (Excalibur Benin Hotel Limited) – Vice President, Hospitality & Tourism; Mr. Igbe Osayande (Osama International Investment Limited) – Vice President, Project Monitoring and Industrial Development; Presco Plc – Vice President, Agro and Agro-allied sector; Lapo Microfinance Bank Limited – Vice President MSMEs; BUA Group (Obu Cement) – Vice President, Mining sector; Macprise Limited – Vice President, Metallic sector. Notably, Femi Ajijala & Co., a reputable Chartered Accounting firm, was reappointed as the Chamber’s auditors.
Overall, the Annual General Meeting showcased Edo State’s commitment to fostering collaboration with the private sector, promoting economic growth, and ensuring the sustainability of businesses within the region.
