The newly inaugurated leadership of the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce has pledged to strengthen economic ties between Nigeria and the United States, with a renewed focus on trade facilitation, innovation, and expansion.
Speaking in Lagos during his inauguration as the 20th President of the NACC, Sheriff Balogun committed to driving greater engagement between the two nations’ business communities. The event also marked the chamber’s 65th anniversary.
“Under my leadership, the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce will double down on its mission to facilitate trade and investment between our two nations through high-level dialogue, strategic missions, and stronger engagement with US businesses and government entities,” Balogun stated. “We will forge deeper and more impactful commercial ties.”
Outlining his vision, Balogun emphasized the importance of adaptive strategies in response to global economic changes, referencing recent developments such as the suspension of tariffs by former US President Donald Trump and intensifying trade tensions with China.
“The current international trade regime, shaped by shifting tariffs, geopolitical uncertainties, and fluctuating investment trends, has deep implications for the world economy. Nigeria is not immune to these developments,” he said. “These dynamics inevitably affect our trade relationships with the United States and require proactive engagement.”
Balogun described the evolving global trade environment as a moment of opportunity for Nigeria. “We must ensure Nigeria is not left behind; we must seize this moment with clarity and courage,” he said, outlining his strategic focus on three key pillars: expansion, innovation, and impact.
To this end, the NACC plans to open new chapters both within Nigeria and in select US cities to bring the chamber closer to businesses and enhance access to international opportunities. He also unveiled plans to promote e-commerce and support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by unlocking finance, encouraging partnerships, and boosting Nigerian exports to the US.
“We will engage public and private sector stakeholders to attract resources, open new markets, and ensure our members’ businesses thrive,” Balogun added.
As part of its infrastructure drive, the chamber is nearing completion of its permanent headquarters in Lagos. A floor within the building has been dedicated to former Kano State Governor and businessman, Col. Sani Bello (rtd). Balogun described the edifice as “not merely a structure, but a symbol of our ambition, resilience, and enduring legacy.”
The inauguration also featured the induction of new members and the presentation of awards to distinguished Nigerians and Americans for their contributions to the chamber’s objectives.
Among the awardees was the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, who reaffirmed her ministry’s commitment to fostering closer ties with the NACC.
Chairman of the inauguration ceremony and President/CEO of the Africa Finance Corporation, Samaila Zubairu, urged members of the Nigerian-American business community to strengthen collaboration to unlock greater economic opportunities.
