NICCI Participates in WBAF Nigeria 2026, Advocates Stronger Angel Investment Networks for Global Startup Growth

The Nigerian-Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) participated in the World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) Nigeria 2026, held at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. The high-level gathering brought together investors, policymakers, entrepreneurs, ecosystem builders, and business leaders to discuss strategies for scaling Nigerian startups through angel investment, international partnerships, and cross-border collaboration.

Organized under the auspices of the World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF), the event provided a strategic platform for stakeholders to examine the evolving role of angel investors in accelerating innovation, strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems, and positioning Nigerian startups for global competitiveness.

The programme commenced with opening remarks by the WBAF Nigeria Country Chair, Amb. Dr. Rosaline Adedoyin-Amangbo, followed by a virtual welcome address from WBAF Global Chairman, Mr. Baybars Altuntas, who underscored the importance of strengthening global investment networks to support emerging businesses and drive sustainable economic development.

A major highlight of the event was the keynote presentation delivered by Mrs. Goodness Alabi, Head of Programmes and Trade Missions at the World Trade Center Abuja, on the theme: “The Internationalization Role of Angel Investors in Scaling Nigerian Startups to Global Entrepreneurs.”

In her address, Mrs. Alabi emphasized that the internationalisation of Nigerian startups is no longer a future aspiration but an urgent necessity. She described angel investors as more than providers of capital, noting that they serve as ecosystem builders, strategic mentors, and global connectors who help bridge the gap between local innovation and international market opportunities.

One of the most engaging sessions of the forum was the first panel discussion, which explored the theme: “The Internationalization Role of Angel Investors in Scaling Nigerian Startups to Global Entrepreneurs.”

The panel featured distinguished industry experts, including Mr. Ishmael Balogun, President of the Nigerian-Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI); Mr. Sean Godoy, Advisor at Prodigy Africa; and Mr. Tijesunimi Falade, FCDO Policy Research Consultant at the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. The session was moderated by Mr. Oloyinka Soola, Chief Executive Officer of Kapeun Nigeria Limited.

Discussions focused on the critical role of angel syndication in reducing investment risks and accelerating startup growth, the need for policy modernization and regulatory reforms, expanding access to finance for startups and MSMEs, and addressing the longstanding gap between innovation-driven businesses and traditional collateral-based lending systems.

The second panel session examined the theme: “Global Collaborations – Strengthening Ecosystems in Nigeria, Africa and Worldwide through WBAF.”

The discussion featured contributions from Amb. Blessing Irabor-Oza, Chairperson, Trade and Investment, CONWOBAA; Mrs. Inemesit Ekong, Representative of the African Women in Leadership Organisation; and Mr. Kayode Olusanya, Chief Executive Officer of The Oak Holdings. The session was moderated by Ms. Precious Amayo, Broadcast Journalist with TV Continental.

Panelists highlighted the importance of international partnerships, ecosystem collaboration, and inclusive investment strategies in driving entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth across Africa and beyond.

A recurring theme throughout the forum was the need to address the challenges facing Nigeria’s startup ecosystem. While Nigeria continues to maintain its position as one of Africa’s leading startup destinations, speakers noted that declining investment inflows and limited global scaling opportunities remain significant barriers to growth.

Stakeholders advocated for increased adoption of blended finance models and public-private partnership frameworks, greater investment in digital infrastructure and frontier technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, stronger collaboration among government, academia, investors, and the private sector, as well as targeted support for women, youth, and underserved entrepreneurs.

Participants also acknowledged Nigeria’s growing strengths in sectors including fintech, agritech, healthtech, edtech, and blockchain innovation, noting that the country’s ability to compete globally will depend on how effectively it aligns capital, policy, technology, and talent.

For NICCI, participation in the forum aligns with its commitment to promoting entrepreneurship, facilitating investment opportunities, and fostering strategic partnerships that support economic growth and innovation. The Chamber continues to advocate for policies and initiatives that strengthen access to finance, encourage international trade and investment, and create pathways for Nigerian businesses to expand into global markets.

The overarching message from WBAF Nigeria 2026 was both clear and compelling: Nigeria does not lack innovative ideas or entrepreneurial talent; the next challenge is building the structures, partnerships, and investment ecosystems needed to scale those ideas beyond borders and unlock their full global potential.