Nigeria has been officially selected to host the 2025 Chovken African Regional Championship, as confirmed by Nura Kangiwa, Chairman of the African Region of the International Chovken Federation.
The announcement was made during a courtesy visit by the Nigeria Chovken Association to Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, in Abuja. The development was shared in a press release by Joessef Karim, media aide to Kangiwa.
Scheduled for late 2025, the tournament will feature teams from various African nations, including Egypt, Morocco, and Kenya, marking a major milestone for the growth of equestrian sports on the continent.
Chovken, a traditional sport similar to polo, is played by two teams of four horseback riders who use curved mallets to strike a small leather ball and score goals. Matches are typically divided into two 15-minute halves.
The sport recently gained global recognition after being inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, highlighting its cultural and historical significance.
Kangiwa noted that hosting the championship will not only bring international visibility to Nigeria but also stimulate local interest in equestrian and heritage sports.
Nigeria’s selection as host comes after an impressive performance at the 2024 International Chovken Championship in Azerbaijan, where the national team secured third place among 10 participating countries including Turkey, Germany, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.
The Nigerian delegation to Azerbaijan comprised key figures such as President Abdulkarim Jibril, Secretary Abba Kangiwa, Treasurer Muktar Adahama, Team Captain Colonel Yusuf Bello, and Abdulmalik Badamasi.
With preparations underway, the 2025 African Chovken Championship promises to be a landmark sporting and cultural event on the continent.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited is undergoing a significant restructuring under its newly appointed Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, with over 200 senior staff members, including managing directors of its three state-owned refineries, being sacked or forced into early retirement.
The overhaul, which began following Ojulari’s appointment on April 2, 2025, aims to reposition the national oil company for greater efficiency, transparency, and alignment with Nigeria’s energy goals.
Among those affected by the shake-up are Bala Wunti, former chief of the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), Ibrahim Onoja, managing director of the Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited (PHRC), Dr. Mustafa Sugungun, managing director of the Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC), and Efifia Chu, managing director of the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company Limited (WRPC).
Additionally, Lawal Sade, the chief compliance officer and former managing director of NNPC Trading, was relieved of her duties.
The company also directed management staff with less than one year to retirement to exit, impacting around 200 employees across various departments.
As part of the reorganization, NNPC appointed Maryam Idrisu as the new managing director of NNPC Trading, responsible for all crude oil transactions, and Obioma Abangwu as the chief liaison officer for board matters.
Sources within the company indicate that these changes are part of a broader strategy to place “round pegs in round holes” and achieve national objectives in the oil and gas sector, with the restructuring extending from the corporate headquarters in Abuja to subsidiaries in upstream, downstream, gas, power, new energy, and non-energy businesses.
The shake-up follows President Bola Tinubu’s sudden dismissal of former NNPC Group CEO Mele Kyari and the company’s board on April 2, 2025, a move attributed to poor performance and failure to meet production targets.
Tinubu appointed Ojulari, a seasoned industry professional with over three decades of experience, and Ahmadu Musa Kida as non-executive chairman to lead a new 11-member board.
Ojulari, previously the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company, is tasked with stabilizing crude oil production, tackling oil theft, and increasing refining capacity to 200,000 barrels per day by 2027 and 500,000 by 2030.
The restructuring comes amid heightened scrutiny of NNPC’s operational integrity, particularly regarding its refineries. The Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company, which underwent an $897.6 million revamp, has been shut since January 25, 2025, due to safety issues in its Crude Distillation Unit Main Heater, failing to produce Premium Motor Spirit (petrol).
Similarly, the Port Harcourt Refinery, which resumed operations in November 2024, has been operating at less than 40% capacity, raising concerns about transparency and efficiency.
Adding to the turmoil, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) stormed the Port Harcourt Refinery on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, to question Acting Managing Director Jelili Ademoye, who assumed the role following Onoja’s dismissal.
Sources at the refinery described the EFCC’s actions as a “commando-style raid,” alleging that officials ignored protocol and briefly sparked a tense standoff with other security outfits, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Army.
The EFCC’s visit was reportedly to verify the availability of vital documents left by the outgoing managing director, though the agency has not officially commented on the operation.
Industry experts and stakeholders have expressed mixed reactions to the developments. Some view the shake-up as a necessary step to address longstanding inefficiencies and political interference in NNPC’s operations, while others caution that the aggressive approach could disrupt morale and continuity.
“The President appears ready to let technocrats lead, but Ojulari faces a tough road ahead,” said Kelvin Emmanuel, an Abuja-based energy analyst.
“Restructuring must be accompanied by clear policies to tackle oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and the shift to private-sector-led refining, as exemplified by the Dangote Refinery.”
Ojulari has outlined ambitious targets, including attracting $30 billion in sectoral investments by 2027 and $60 billion by 2030, raising crude oil production to 2 million barrels per day by 2027 and 3 million by 2030, and expanding gas production to 10 billion cubic feet per day by 2027.
At a recent town hall meeting with NNPC staff, he emphasized transparency, profitability, and employee empowerment, stating,
“We will build a high-performing, globally competitive NNPC Limited that is proudly Nigerian and world-class.”
As the new leadership navigates these challenges, stakeholders are calling for sustained reforms, including the continuation of the naira-for-crude policy and collaboration with private refineries like Dangote to enhance energy security and reduce fuel imports.
With Nigeria’s economy heavily reliant on oil, the success of Ojulari’s reforms will be critical to restoring investor confidence and driving economic growth.
The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has extended heartfelt congratulations to Nigerian oil and gas workers in honor of Workers’ Day, recognizing their critical role in sustaining the nation’s economy.
In a statement marking the annual celebration, PETROAN National President, Dr. Billy Gillis Harry, commended the resilience and dedication of industry workers while calling on both government and private sector stakeholders to improve worker welfare packages and provide comprehensive health insurance coverage.
He emphasized the serious health risks associated with prolonged exposure to gas flaring, which remains a persistent issue in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions.
“Studies have shown that workers in gas flaring zones face heightened risks of physical, mental, and cancer-related health issues,” Dr. Harry noted.
Highlighting the environmental and health hazards of gas flaring, PETROAN called for urgent policy enforcement and stricter compliance by oil companies to end the harmful practice. Dr. Harry stressed the importance of safeguarding the well-being of workers and host communities, advocating for a more sustainable and responsible oil and gas sector.
“It’s imperative that we prioritize the health and well-being of our workers and protect the environment from the harmful effects of gas flaring,” he said.
In addition to its call for improved worker benefits, PETROAN applauded state governors who have implemented or surpassed the new minimum wage, urging others to follow suit promptly to ensure workers are fairly compensated.
The association reiterated its commitment to partnering with relevant stakeholders to promote safe working conditions, enhance worker welfare, and push for regulatory reforms that support a healthier and more productive oil and gas industry in Nigeria.
Every year on May 1st, Nigeria joins the rest of the world in celebrating Labour Day, also known as Workers’ Day. It is a day dedicated to honoring the contributions of workers to national development, and it provides an opportunity to spotlight issues affecting the Nigerian workforce. As Nigerians celebrate Workers’ Day, the conversation about the effectiveness of the newly approved ₦70,000 minimum wage has gained momentum, with workers, unions, and government officials all weighing in.
The Minimum Wage Debate: ₦30,000 to ₦70,000
In 2024, the Nigerian government increased the national minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000 following intense negotiations with labour unions. This increase was aimed at addressing the rising inflation and the economic struggles faced by Nigerian workers. While many viewed this wage hike as a positive step, the reality is that it barely scratches the surface of what is needed to provide a decent standard of living for workers, especially in urban areas where living costs are significantly higher.
States Implementing the ₦70,000 Minimum Wage
As of early 2025, about 20 states have begun paying the new minimum wage. These include states like Lagos, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Enugu, and Adamawa. However, the implementation has been uneven, with some states paying the full ₦70,000 while others have made partial adjustments.
Despite the federal government’s directive, many states, especially in the northern regions, have yet to fully comply, citing financial constraints and limited resources, leaving workers in these areas to struggle with the rising cost of living. This inconsistency in wage payment has sparked frustration among workers and labour unions, who argue that the wage should be uniformly implemented across all states.
The Cost of Living in Nigeria: Is ₦70,000 Enough?
Despite the increase in the minimum wage, Nigerian workers continue to face a harsh economic reality. Inflation has reached an all-time high, and the cost of basic goods such as food, transportation, and housing has skyrocketed. According to the Anker Living Wage Reference, a family in rural Nigeria requires ₦307,691 per month to meet basic needs, far above the ₦70,000 minimum wage. In urban centers like Lagos and Abuja, this figure is likely even higher. This gap between wages and living costs highlights the insufficiency of the new wage in providing a decent standard of living for most workers.
Government’s Response: Actions and Initiatives
The Nigerian government has taken several steps to address the concerns of workers. In addition to approving the new minimum wage, the government has introduced job creation schemes, tax incentives for small businesses, and efforts to stimulate the economy. However, critics argue that these efforts are insufficient and do not address the root causes of inflation and economic inequality. Structural reforms aimed at stabilizing inflation, controlling the cost of living, and improving public services are seen as essential to making the minimum wage more meaningful for workers.
Labour Unions: The Push for Fair Wages and Improved Conditions
Labour unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have been vocal in their criticism of the new minimum wage. While they acknowledge the increase, they argue that it is not enough given the current economic climate. The unions have called for regular wage reviews that are tied to inflation rates and have demanded that the government do more to protect workers’ rights and welfare.
The Plight of Nigerian Workers: Struggling to Make Ends Meet
Despite the wage increases, many Nigerian workers are still struggling to make ends meet. The combination of low wages, high inflation, and poor public services means that many workers are forced to take on additional jobs or rely on informal lending groups to cover basic expenses. For many, the wage increase is not enough to cover essential needs such as food, transportation, healthcare, and rent. This situation is particularly dire in urban areas, where the cost of living is highest.
Labour Day 2025 should serve as more than just a celebration of Nigerian workers; it should be a call to action. The gap between wages and the cost of living in Nigeria is a stark reminder that economic policies must prioritize the welfare of workers. Raising the minimum wage is a start, but it is not enough. Nigeria needs a living wage that reflects the actual cost of living, not just a nominal increase in pay. Until then, the struggle for workers’ rights and economic justice will continue.
Residents of Maiduguri, Borno State capital, were thrown into panic in the early hours of Thursday following multiple explosions at the Giwa Military Barracks.
The blasts, which reportedly began around 12:05 a.m., were accompanied by flashes of red light and loud booms that shook the surrounding neighborhoods. Eyewitnesses say the explosions appeared to be coming from the armoury section of the military facility.
Videos and accounts from locals, including a resident identified as Rakiya Garba, revealed the swift response of fire service personnel as sirens echoed through the area. “We are safe, but we are in fear. The explosion is coming from inside the barracks. It is not an attack because we are not hearing gunshots. However, it has been a sporadic explosion,” she said.
In response to rising public concern and speculation about a possible terror attack, the Deputy Governor of Borno State, Dr. Umar Kadafur, issued a statement clarifying the incident. According to him, the explosions were the result of a fire outbreak at the armoury within Giwa Barracks, not an assault by insurgents.
Dr. Kadafur urged residents to remain calm and indoors, assuring them that security operatives had brought the situation under control. “It is not a Boko Haram attack. The fire caused explosions from stored munitions,” he said.
The state government and military authorities are expected to conduct a full investigation into the cause of the fire and assess the extent of the damage.
Veteran utility forward Deon Fourie has signed a one-year contract extension with the Stormers, even though an ankle injury has ruled him out for the remainder of the current United Rugby Championship season.
The 38-year-old underwent surgery earlier this month after sustaining the injury during a match against Connacht on April 19 in Cape Town. Despite his absence for the rest of the campaign, the Stormers have retained him for the 2025 season.
“Deon is a true warrior and still has a significant contribution to make for us next season, both on the field and in terms of his leadership,” said Stormers coach John Dobson.
“He is a remarkable player who has done so much for this team over the years, and we know that he will give all he has in characteristic fashion when he returns.”
Fourie, who became South Africa’s oldest debutant in 2022 just before his 36th birthday, played as a makeshift hooker in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, where the Springboks narrowly defeated New Zealand in Paris. He was recently invited to a Springbok training camp despite having battled multiple injuries over the past two seasons.
Having played both as a hooker and loose forward throughout his career, Fourie spent seven seasons in France before returning to the Stormers in 2021, where he earned Springbok selection and fan-favorite status.
Following reports that Amazon was considering showing the cost impact of trade tariffs to buyers, U.S. President Donald Trump reached out to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
Amazon had explored the possibility of reflecting tariff costs on its budget-friendly platform, Amazon Haul, which launched in the U.S. last year to compete with rivals like Shein and Temu.
However, the company clarified that it ultimately opted against the move, and the idea was never intended for its primary shopping platform.
The White House’s firm reaction to the report highlights the pressure it’s facing over recently imposed import taxes. Experts warn these taxes could lead to consumer price increases and a heightened risk of economic slowdown.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, marking Trump’s 100th day back in office, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said she had reviewed the Amazon matter with the president and claimed it was “another reason why Americans should buy American.”
“This is a hostile and political act by Amazon,” she said. “Why didn’t Amazon do this when the Biden administration hiked inflation to the highest level in 40 years?”
Since resuming office in January, Trump has escalated tariffs, defending the move as a strategy to bolster domestic manufacturing and boost U.S. revenue.
Despite softening some earlier proposals this month, many foreign-made goods are now subject to minimum duties of 10%, with Chinese imports in particular facing tariffs starting at 145%.
These developments have led to a notable decline in trade between China and the U.S., sparking concern over potential product shortages, from strollers to umbrellas—categories where China is a key exporter.
In response, some companies have begun alerting customers about increased costs. Platforms like Shein and Temu, which ship directly from Chinese producers, have already announced price increases.
Data indicates that around half of the vendors selling on Amazon’s U.S. site are based in China.
When questioned, Amazon representative Tim Doyle verified that such a plan had been reviewed for Amazon Haul.
“This was never approved and is not going to happen,” he said.
An insider with knowledge of the matter noted the conversation began when the U.S. ended a tariff exemption for Chinese shipments valued under $800.
According to the source, Amazon’s decision not to go ahead with the plan had nothing to do with the White House’s remarks earlier that day.
But asked by reporters about his call with Mr Bezos, Trump said the billionaire, who stepped down as chief executive in 2021, had “solved the problem”.
“Jeff Bezos was very nice. He was terrific. He solved the problem very quickly. He did the right thing. He’s a good guy,” he said.
Amazon had been one of several companies to contribute funds to Trump’s inauguration, with Mr. Bezos receiving a place of honor at the ceremony.
Following the 2016 election, Mr. Bezos—also the owner of The Washington Post—met with Trump and supported efforts to ease regulations and cut taxes.
Despite that, their interactions over the years have often been marked by friction.
South Sudanese basketball sensation Khaman Maluach has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft following a standout freshman season with Duke University. The 7-foot-2 center is widely projected as a lottery pick, drawing major attention for his rare combination of size, skill, and potential.
Maluach, who grew up in Uganda and trained at the NBA Academy Africa, impressed in his lone season at Duke. Starting all 39 games, he helped lead the Blue Devils to the ACC regular-season and tournament titles, as well as a Final Four appearance.
He averaged 8.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game, while shooting a remarkable 71.2% from the field and 76.6% from the free-throw line — efficiency that highlights his finishing ability and composure at the rim.
Ranked No. 8 on ESPN’s big board and projected No. 14 to the Atlanta Hawks by The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie, Maluach is one of the youngest prospects in the draft, not turning 19 until September.
Despite picking up basketball later than many of his peers, Maluach quickly emerged as a two-way force. His 7-foot-6 wingspan and 9-foot-8 standing reach made him a dominant rim protector, while his agility and lateral quickness allowed him to defend on the perimeter — a rare trait for a player of his stature.
On offense, Maluach excelled as a vertical lob threat, ranking in the top 10 nationally in offensive rebounding rate and finishing an incredible 80.6% of his shots at the rim, according to CBB Analytics. He developed strong chemistry with Duke’s star guard Cooper Flagg, thriving in pick-and-roll situations.
Though still developing his post game, Maluach displayed soft hands and a growing touch. Scouts are also optimistic about his future as a floor-spacing big, citing his increasing three-point attempts and strong free-throw shooting as signs of untapped shooting potential.
With his elite physical tools, defensive prowess, and flashes of offensive growth, Khaman Maluach is viewed as a high-upside project with the potential to become a long-term anchor for an NBA frontcourt.
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has been a crucial part of Nigeria’s post-graduation system for decades. Created to promote national unity and development, the scheme requires graduates to serve in various parts of the country, often far from their homes. Recently, however, the Federal Government (FG) has proposed an extension of the NYSC service year, sparking debates and raising questions about its implications for corp members (corpers) and the country at large. What does this proposed extension mean for you as a corp member?
Why is the FG Proposing the NYSC Extension?
The Federal Government’s proposal to extend the NYSC year stems from a variety of reasons, each aimed at making the scheme more effective in its objectives of fostering national unity, enhancing skill development, and contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic development. Some of them are;
Enhancing National Unity: One of the core aims of the NYSC program is to bridge the cultural and regional divides in the country. With the rise of socio-political tensions and unrest, the government believes that a longer service period could give corps members more time to understand different cultures, languages, and the realities of other regions.
Improved Skill Development: There are growing concerns that the current one-year service does not allow corp members enough time to fully immerse themselves in projects that could contribute meaningfully to their personal development and the communities they serve. By extending the program, the government hopes to give corp members more time to acquire job-ready skills, enhance their capacity to contribute to community development, and perhaps create a more skilled workforce for the country.
Addressing Socio-Economic Development Gaps: The government is also seeking to use the corps members as a stronger force for tackling socio-economic development, particularly in underserved areas. An extension could mean that corps members stay longer in rural and remote areas, where they can have a more significant and lasting impact on education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Tackling the Youth Unemployment Crisis: With youth unemployment rates at an all-time high, the government sees the NYSC extension as a potential tool for improving economic activity, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating opportunities for both corp members and host communities.
What Would the Extension Mean?
In practical terms, the proposed extension would add a few more months (or potentially a year) to the current one-year mandatory service. This could translate into changes in the following areas:
Longer Duration of Service: Instead of completing the service year in 12 months, corps members could be required to serve anywhere between 18 months and two years, depending on the final design of the extension.
Broader Range of Projects: During the extended period, corp members may have opportunities to work on larger, more impactful community development projects, which could help them build valuable skills and experience in areas like leadership, project management, and community engagement.
Post-Service Support: With the extended service time, the government might enhance its post-service support structures, such as career counseling, skill development programs, and job placement services. This could increase the prospects for corps members when they transition into the workforce after their service ends.
How Will the Extension Affect You as a Corp Member?
More Time for Skill Development and Training
One of the most exciting opportunities an extended NYSC service year offers is the chance to build more robust, marketable skills. With more time to invest in your personal development, you can make your service year more impactful, both for your future and the communities you serve. Whether you’re teaching, working in healthcare, or involved in community development, the extra months give you time to become more involved in meaningful projects at your Place of Primary Assignment (PPA). You could take on leadership roles, gain advanced expertise, or make a more significant contribution to the organizations you work with.
Building Stronger Connections and Networks
Networking is key to career growth, and an extended service year gives you more time to build relationships, not only with your fellow corps members but also with the people and organizations you work with in your local community.
This could open doors for future collaborations or job offers.
With more time in your PPA or rural community, you’ll have the chance to make a greater impact. This could lead to full-time job offers or even career recommendations from the organizations or communities you work with. They might want to keep you on board after your service year ends because of the deep understanding you’ll have gained during your extended time there.
Increased Sense of Accomplishment and Impact
With the proposed extension, you may have the opportunity to take on larger, more meaningful projects that make a lasting impact. The extra time gives you a chance to leave a tangible legacy in the community you serve. Longer service means more time to follow through on community development projects. Whether it’s in education, health, agriculture, or infrastructure, you can ensure that your efforts are not rushed and that they have a more sustainable impact. As a corp member, your service often leads to fulfilling moments—whether it’s improving the lives of children in a school, creating a health campaign, or helping build infrastructure. The extension could amplify these moments, as you’ll have more time to see the full effects of your hard work.
Opportunity for Personal Growth
Spending a longer time away from home, especially in a rural setting, can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth. The extension allows you to further challenge yourself and become more resilient, resourceful, and adaptable. Life in rural areas can be tough, especially if you’re far from family and the comfort of urban life. By sticking it out for a longer period, you’ll likely develop greater emotional resilience and coping skills that will benefit you long after NYSC ends.
Increased Opportunities for Skill Acquisition
With more time in the service year, you would have a better chance to deepen your skills, either in your place of primary assignment (PPA) or through the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program. The extension could give you more time to start a business, take online courses, or explore mentorship opportunities that might have been rushed otherwise. A longer service year would likely come with increased responsibility. You might be tasked with more significant projects, manage a larger team of fellow corps members, or take on leadership roles within your community service projects. This could make your NYSC experience richer but also more challenging.
Psychological and Emotional Impact
A prolonged stay in the NYSC scheme could lead to burnout, especially for those who are eager to start their careers or feel disconnected from the communities they serve. The lack of autonomy over when your service will end could affect your mental well-being, leading to frustrations and a sense of stagnation.
How Would the Extension Affect Corp members Rural States?
The extension would have a profound impact on those serving in rural states, where many of the country’s developmental challenges are most evident. Here’s a look at how corp members in these areas might be affected: Increased Contribution to Rural Development: With more time on the ground, corps members in rural areas could have a more substantial impact on long-term development initiatives. These areas often lack basic infrastructure, educational resources, and healthcare, so corp members could become critical assets in these underserved regions. Challenges of Living in Rural Communities: For corp members already struggling with isolation, inadequate housing, poor healthcare, and limited social amenities, an extended service period could feel like a further hardship. Some might feel trapped in remote areas with no access to basic conveniences, leading to frustration and disillusionment. Cultural Immersion and Adaptation: An extension might help corp members better adapt to and understand rural life. The government’s vision includes fostering more meaningful relationships between urban and rural populations, and with a longer stay, corps members might become more connected to the community and its challenges. Potential for Increased Rural Depopulation: While corp members could contribute to rural development during their extended service, there is the risk that many might not want to settle in areas that lack modern amenities. This could potentially lead to a brain drain, as corps members might seek to return to urban areas post-service, leaving rural regions with a significant gap in skilled labor. Enhanced Community Projects: The extra time in rural settings could mean more time to initiate and complete sustainable community development projects. Corps members may have the opportunity to work on initiatives that could last beyond their service year, such as creating small-scale local businesses, improving school systems, or contributing to healthcare outreach programs.
A Double-Edged Sword
While the idea of an extended NYSC service year might initially seem daunting or disruptive, there are numerous positive aspects to consider. From gaining more time to develop valuable skills, to increasing your impact on the community, the extension provides you with unique opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. It’s an opportunity to build stronger connections, create a lasting legacy in your community, and prepare yourself for a successful future.
If approached with a positive mindset, the extended service year can become a truly transformative experience. The additional months could be the perfect time to master new skills, take on more responsibilities, and set the stage for the next phase of your life with a wealth of knowledge and experiences to draw from. So, while the future may seem uncertain, embracing the extension with enthusiasm and openness might just open doors to opportunities you hadn’t imagined before.
As the policy takes shape, it’s important for both the government and the corps members themselves to weigh these pros and cons and come to a solution that best serves the national interest while considering the realities faced by young Nigerians in service.
The formal unveiling of the Nigeria-Mexico Chamber of Commerce (NMCC) took place recently, with its primary aim being the promotion of stronger trade and economic relations between the two nations.
The launch event, held in Abuja on Tuesday, also featured the public presentation of the Chamber’s Board of Directors.
At the ceremony hosted by the Mexican embassy, Mexico’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Alfredo Miranda, referred to the Chamber’s establishment as “a new chapter in the economic, cultural and strategic relations between the two great nations.”
He highlighted that the Chamber would serve as a platform for fostering exchange in business, innovation, and enterprise, pointing out the shared cultural richness, resilience, and determination of both countries.
Amb. Miranda added that the NMCC aims to act as a key enabler for businesses in Nigeria and Mexico—offering market insights, encouraging investments, and strengthening mutual cooperation.
Miranda said: “This is the moment we are certain will work, create a new narrative and show to people that together Nigeria and Mexico are big power houses.
“The two countries do wonderful work for their continents. We have to continue working in trade, this is why it is important to focus on these strategic areas and see the capacity of some countries.
“I believe that in the future, we will have more positive figures than what we have just done.“
Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, stressed the importance of boosting bilateral cooperation to unlock economic prospects for both countries. Represented by Amb. Anderson Madubuike, Director of the Economic, Trade and Investment Department, Tuggar said: “There are so much that the two countries can do in advancing the global economy, good enough this NMCC has come at an auspicious moment.
“By talking about globalisation we are saying African countries must come together to take their rightful places in the committee of nations.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Idi Mukhtar, the Minister of Livestock and Rural Development, pledged to expand agricultural opportunities through targeted investments in the red meat value chain, livestock health, and dairy production.
Mukhtar observed that Nigeria currently spends approximately $1.5 billion annually on dairy imports and emphasized the government’s plan to scale up local meat production and boost its competitiveness globally.
“So, the ministry is open to investment and this is where we have been able to send a message to all captains of industry and the newly created Nigerian-Mexico,” he said.
Arim Topete, President of NMCC, praised the successful event, noting that it signaled the beginning of a chamber based on mutual trust, opportunity, and foresight.
She emphasized the economic stature of Mexico, stating that the country is ranked as the world’s 12th largest economy with a GDP of $1.8 trillion.
Pete said, “We are going to focus on trade with Nigeria as our primary focus. Times have changed and the rules of trade have also been rewritten.
“So it is a good time for NMCC because there are so many opportunities across both countries. Our economies are so complimentary, it is for us to now start the initiative,” she said.
Attendees at the inauguration included Dele Kelvin Oye, President of the Nigerian Association of Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), as well as representatives from various Nigerian trade chambers, diplomats, and business leaders.
The NMCC was formed to encourage two-way trade and investment, help businesses navigate legal and regulatory frameworks, and promote partnerships that lead to employment, knowledge sharing, and technological progress in both countries.
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