Nigeria Indonesia trade finance forum NICCI meeting explores innovative banking models, SME funding, and stronger bilateral economic cooperation

The Nigerian Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) on Tuesday hosted its April 2026 bi-monthly meeting at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Victoria Island, Lagos, bringing together policymakers, investors, financial institutions, and diplomatic representatives to deepen discussions on sustainable economic growth and innovative financial systems.

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The purpose of the meeting was focused on strengthening bilateral trade relations between both countries through improved access to capital, expanded support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and the adoption of more inclusive banking models.

The event featured presentations from leading institutions including The Alternative Bank, Flutterwave, Sewa Capital, Tyro Group, NEXIM Bank, BGL Capital, and the Embassy of Indonesia, each outlining strategies for unlocking investment opportunities and improving financial infrastructure across emerging markets.

Opening the session, NICCI Trade Mission Chairman, Mr. Adesina Osinoiki, stressed the importance of sustained collaboration between Nigeria and Indonesia, noting that innovation in finance remains critical to unlocking long-term economic value and strengthening cross-border partnerships.

NICCI President, Mr. Ishmael Balogun, in his address, described financing as a strategic development tool rather than a purely transactional mechanism, calling for a shift towards market-driven models that prioritise productivity and inclusive growth.

Indonesia’s Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Bambang Suharto, highlighted the role of MSMEs in Indonesia’s economic transformation, noting their contribution to more than 60 per cent of GDP.

He also emphasised the importance of digital financial systems and cross-border payment integration in expanding trade between both nations.

Financial sector stakeholders used the platform to advocate for more adaptive financing structures capable of addressing persistent capital access gaps affecting SMEs.

The Alternative Bank highlighted ethical, asset-backed financing models, while Flutterwave showcased its cross-border payment infrastructure designed to simplify transactions across multiple global markets.

Sewa Capital emphasised the need for tailored capital solutions across different business growth stages, while NEXIM Bank reaffirmed its mandate to support non-oil exports through financing, guarantees, and advisory services.

Tyro Group focused on mobilising patient capital for industrial growth, particularly in manufacturing and energy sectors, while BGL Capital presented frameworks aimed at scaling Nigeria–Indonesia trade, which it said had risen significantly in recent years.

Panel discussions further explored fintech innovation, sustainable lending, regulatory alignment, and risk management, with participants calling for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to de-risk investments and improve access to structured financing.

The event also witnessed the induction of new NICCI members and the formal introduction of 10 standing committees, reinforcing the Chamber’s governance structure and expanding its cross-sector engagement network.

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The meeting concluded with a call for coordinated action among stakeholders to build a more resilient financial ecosystem capable of supporting long-term bilateral trade growth between Nigeria and Indonesia.