KOCCIMA Inaugurates 14-Member Governing Council to Boost Government-Private Sector Partnership in Kogi
By Yahaya Idris, Lokoja
The Kogi Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KOCCIMA) has inaugurated a 14-member Governing Council to strengthen collaboration between the Kogi State Government and the private sector, with the aim of promoting economic growth, investment, industrialisation and job creation.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, KOCCIMA President, Dr. Demiloye Akerejola, described the newly inaugurated council members as distinguished professionals committed to advancing commerce and sustainable economic development in the state.
He said the members were carefully selected based on their vision, experience and passion for economic transformation.
“These are men and women of vision, experience and passion who believe that when business thrives, communities thrive,” Dr. Akerejola said.
Dr. Akerejola described their appointment as a call to service, urging them to serve as a bridge between government, businesses and citizens.
According to him, the Governing Council is expected to advocate for business-friendly policies, create opportunities for Chamber members and strengthen KOCCIMA’s role as the leading voice of commerce in Kogi State.
“Your job is to be the bridge between government and citizens, to fight for better policies, create opportunities for members, and make the Chamber the number one voice for commerce in the state,” he stated.
First Governing Council In Eight Years
The KOCCIMA President noted that the inauguration marks the first Governing Council to be constituted in eight years, describing it as a significant milestone in the Chamber’s renewed commitment to supporting the diversification of Kogi State’s economy.
He acknowledged the prevailing economic challenges but expressed confidence in the resilience of entrepreneurs across the state.
“The assignment is tough because the economy is tough, but our entrepreneurs are tougher. With unity, innovation and courage, we will turn challenges into opportunities,” he said.
He urged the council members to immediately commence work and contribute innovative ideas that would position Kogi as a preferred destination for investment and business growth.
Dr. Akerejola outlined the core expectations for the Governing Council, including unwavering commitment to the Chamber’s vision and mission, professionalism, integrity, accountability and teamwork.
He explained that the council, being the second-highest organ of KOCCIMA, will play a strategic role in strengthening collaboration between government institutions and the organised private sector to accelerate economic development.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the administration of the oath of office on the Governing Council members by the Chamber’s Vice President (Legal), Barr. Yunusa Ibrahim.
Speaking on behalf of the council members, the Permanent Secretary, Kogi State Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Hajia Amana Sualihat, expressed confidence that the council would successfully deliver on its responsibilities.
She described the assignment as achievable and pledged the members’ commitment to advancing the Chamber’s objectives.
The newly inaugurated Governing Council comprises representatives from several ministries and strategic federal agencies, including:
Ministry of Transport
Ministry of Culture and Tourism
Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Security
Ministry of Water Resources
Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural Resources
Ministry of Housing and Urban Development
Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management
National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA)
Nigerian Shippers Council
Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC)
Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC),
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)
Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON)
The inauguration of the Governing Council is expected to reposition KOCCIMA as a strategic partner in driving investment, supporting industrialisation, promoting entrepreneurship and creating employment opportunities across Kogi State.
The Chamber also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering stronger public-private partnerships that will contribute to sustainable economic growth and improved ease of doing business in the state.
