The Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (PHCCIMA), led by its President, Chinyere Nworga, hosted a high-profile bilateral investment and trade forum in collaboration with the Nigeria-Indonesia Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The event, themed “Nigeria-Indonesia Investment and Trade Forum,” brought together stakeholders from both countries to explore business opportunities and foster economic cooperation.
In her welcome address, President Nworga emphasized PHCCIMA’s commitment to business growth and development. “The Chamber exists to grow your businesses and the business community around us,” she said, urging members to seize the opportunities presented by the Indonesian partnership. She highlighted Indonesia’s expanding market and the value of international collaboration.
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Cordelia Eke, Chairperson of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Port Harcourt Branch, advised businesses to prioritize legal structure. “Every business must be properly legalized. Lawyers help mitigate risks and navigate regulations,” she noted, calling for stronger ties between the legal and business communities.
From the financial sector, Mr. Collins Weje, President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), emphasized the importance of proper bookkeeping and financial literacy. “Every successful business must take stock, monitor profit and loss, and know when to reassess,” he stated. Weje also announced ICAN’s willingness to support businesses with fair billing and even pro bono services for those in need.
Highlighting Indonesia’s economic advantages, Mr. Ishmael Balogun, President of the Nigeria-Indonesia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, outlined the benefits of trading with Indonesia, pointing to high-performing sectors such as electronics and consumer goods. He encouraged PHCCIMA members to attend the upcoming Trade and Investment Forum in Jakarta, describing it as a valuable platform for networking, promoting exports, and forming meaningful partnerships.
The event drew a wide array of participants from within and beyond Port Harcourt, including industry leaders, entrepreneurs, legal experts, and representatives from professional institutions.
In closing, past PHCCIMA President Dr. Eneka Onachukwu expressed gratitude to attendees and reaffirmed the Chamber’s growing influence. He encouraged non-members to join PHCCIMA, noting that the organization has carved out a strong niche in advancing regional and international trade.
