NDCCITMA and Canada agree to deepen economic ties, aiming to drive growth and attract foreign participation at upcoming summit
The Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture and the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria have agreed to collaborate on investment and economic development in the Niger Delta region following high-level talks in Lagos.
The commitment was reached during an official visit by the Chamber to the Canadian Consulate last weekend, where both sides explored opportunities for deeper economic cooperation.
Leading the NDCCITMA delegation, Secretary Dr. Solomon Edebiri engaged a diplomatic team headed by Trade Commissioner and Second Secretary, Delane Boakye, to outline investment prospects across the oil-rich region.
NDCCITMA’s discussions focused on attracting Canadian investors to a major investment summit scheduled for May in Port Harcourt.
Edebiri urged the Canadian mission to support participation by Canadian firms in the summit’s technical sessions and exhibition, while also extending an invitation for a goodwill address by the High Commissioner.
He highlighted key sectors requiring investment, including science and technology infrastructure, energy transition, industrialisation, and integrated development projects.
The Chamber also pushed for stronger business linkages, skills development initiatives, and technology transfer to unlock the region’s economic potential.
In response, Boakye said Canada recognises the vast opportunities within the Niger Delta and reaffirmed its readiness to deepen economic ties.
She noted that the Commission has maintained active engagement with business groups and government agencies in the region, reflecting its sustained interest.
Boakye assured that the request would receive prompt and serious consideration, describing Nigeria as a strategic economic partner of Canada.
The Commission further pledged to encourage Canadian companies operating in Nigeria to participate in the forthcoming summit, signalling a promising step towards enhanced bilateral investment.
