Society Gists

The grandeur of the Lagos Continental Hotel on Victoria Island provided the perfect backdrop as the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC) commemorated its 65th anniversary in style.

The occasion, held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, also marked the Chamber’s 20th Presidential Inauguration Dinner—an evening steeped in history, elegance, and economic vision.

With the theme “The Power of Cooperation: 65 Years of Optimising Nigerian-American Economic Relations,” the event welcomed a distinguished array of guests from both the public and private sectors.

Kicking off promptly at 5:00 p.m. with the rendition of the Nigerian and American national anthems, the ceremony underscored the spirit of bilateral partnership that has defined NACC’s legacy.

For 65 years, NACC has stood as a beacon of trade diplomacy, tirelessly fostering business opportunities, encouraging cross-border investments, and connecting Nigerian entrepreneurs with their American counterparts. The evening was not only a celebration of past achievements but a powerful reaffirmation of future ambitions.

The night’s crowning moment was the inauguration of Alhaji Sheriff Balogun as the 20th National President of the Chamber. Clad in regal traditional attire, Alhaji Balogun took center stage with poise and purpose.

In his inaugural speech, he unveiled his leadership team and shared a bold vision to elevate the U.S.-Nigeria trade relationship.

“Our mission is simple but significant—to deepen U.S.-Nigeria economic ties, expand trade volume beyond $10 billion, and unlock the full potential of Nigerian exports,” he stated with conviction.

His remarks drew applause and set a dynamic tone for the future of the Chamber.

The evening also witnessed the induction of 52 new members into the Chamber—each one welcomed with a sense of pride and promise. Another key moment was the unveiling of the 3D model for NACC’s future seven-storey headquarters, a symbol of the Chamber’s forward-thinking agenda and long-term growth strategy.

True to its tradition of honoring excellence, NACC presented awards to outstanding Nigerian and American companies and individuals whose contributions have shaped the economic landscape.

Past presidents were also honored, in recognition of their leadership and enduring impact.

The event was chaired by Mr. Samaila Zubairu, President of the Africa Finance Corporation, and hosted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State.

The guest list reads like a who’s who of business, government, and diplomacy, including: Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperation, Trade and Investment, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, Legal icon Aare Afe Babalola, Oil and gas magnate Catherine Uju Ifejika, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller General of Customs, Tech visionary Mr. Leo Stan Ekeh,
Auto industry leader Chief Michael Ade-Ojo and Former Ogun State Commissioner Otunba Bimbo Ashiru amongst others.

Each guest brought prestige and perspective to the evening, making it not just a celebration, but a convergence of minds dedicated to economic growth and cooperation.

As NACC looks to the future, the message is clear: the best is yet to come.
With visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to bilateral progress, the Chamber is set to write an even more impactful chapter in Nigerian-American economic relations.