NICCI Participates in Afretrade Entrepreneur Festival (TAEF) 2026, Promotes Entrepreneurship and Global Partnerships

The Nigerian-Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) participated in the recently concluded Afretrade Entrepreneur Festival (TAEF) 2026, a premier platform that brought together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, business leaders, and development stakeholders to explore pathways for advancing entrepreneurship, innovation, and international collaboration across Africa.

Held under the theme, “Advancing Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Global Partnerships for Africa’s Economic Growth,” the festival provided a dynamic forum for discussions on trade, investment, infrastructure development, diaspora engagement, and sustainable economic transformation.

The event commenced with opening remarks by the Master of ceremonies, Ms. Ifunanya Nduka, followed by a welcome address from Mr. Lekan Salaam, Founder and CEO of Afretrade, who emphasised the importance of strategic partnerships in empowering entrepreneurs, expanding market access, and creating opportunities for African businesses in the global economy.

Participants gained valuable insights into Afretrade’s vision and growth strategy through presentations delivered by Dr. Charly Lemassi, Chief Operating Officer of Afretrade, and Mr. Jubril Gbajabiamila, Chief Product Officer, who highlighted the organization’s commitment to driving innovation, facilitating trade, and supporting business growth across the continent.

The festival featured keynote presentations from renowned industry leaders, including Mr. Unwana Ekanem, Founder and CEO of Facility Bills, who spoke on Africa’s economic renaissance and the critical role of energy and infrastructure in unlocking growth opportunities. Mr. Bimbo Olashore, President of the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce, underscored the value of private-sector collaboration, while Dr. Toks Omishakin, Secretary of the California State Transportation Agency, shared perspectives on infrastructure development and international cooperation.

A major highlight of the event was the keynote address delivered by former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, who stressed the importance of visionary leadership, strong institutions, and strategic planning as essential drivers of sustainable development and economic prosperity across Africa.

The festival also received a goodwill message from Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, OON, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), who reiterated the significant role of the Nigerian diaspora in promoting investment, innovation, and global partnerships.

Another notable session focused on “Leveraging the Lagos–California Sister State Partnership to Overcome Economic Barriers.” The panel brought together distinguished leaders from the public and private sectors to discuss opportunities for entrepreneurship, investment promotion, diaspora engagement, and economic cooperation between Lagos, California, and the broader international business community.

Beyond the plenary sessions, participants engaged in strategic networking, partnership-building, and knowledge-sharing activities designed to strengthen business ecosystems and create new opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

NICCI’s participation at TAEF 2026 reflects the Chamber’s continued commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, promoting international trade and investment, and supporting initiatives that strengthen economic cooperation between Nigeria, Indonesia, and the global business community.

As Africa continues to position itself as a hub for innovation and enterprise, NICCI remains dedicated to building strategic partnerships that create value for businesses, encourage investment, and contribute to long-term economic development.