JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
The Abeokuta Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ABEOCCIMA) on Thursday celebrated its 50th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Golden Jubilee celebration with a strong call for businesses to embrace innovation, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation as tools for competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving global economy.
The historic event, held in Abeokuta, also saw the inauguration of a new Chamber Executive Committee and Council, bringing together government officials, private sector leaders and stakeholders from Nigeria’s business ecosystem.
‘Fifty years of resilience, enterprise and collective progress’ — President ABEOCCIMA
In his welcome speech, ABEOCCIMA President Timothy Shorunke described the milestone as a “momentous occasion” reflecting five decades of resilience, enterprise and institutional growth.
“Today marks our Golden Jubilee: fifty years of enterprise, resilience, partnership and service to the growth of Egbaland, Ogun State and the Nigerian economy,” Shorunke said.
He paid tribute to the House’s founding fathers and subsequent leaders, noting that their sacrifices laid the foundation for its success.
“We honor companies that have withstood cycles of reform and recession, innovation and disruption, while maintaining faith in Egbaland and its people. Your courage and commitment remain the foundation of ABEOCCIMA’s legacy,” he added.
Shorunke highlighted the Chamber’s contributions over the decades, including policy advocacy, MSME support, investment facilitation and market expansion in sectors such as manufacturing, agribusiness, solid minerals and the creative economy.
He highlighted that the business world is now being reshaped by data and intelligent systems, saying that “competitive advantage is no longer defined solely by capital, but by the quality of information, the speed of decisions and the agility of adaptation.”
The theme of the Chamber General Assembly conference was: “Smart Business: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Competitive Advantage.”
The Ogun government promises support for the digital economy and industrial growth
Representing the Ogun State Government, the Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Sofela Emmanuel Adebola, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for business through policies driven by innovation and infrastructure development.
“AI has rapidly evolved from a futuristic concept to a practical business tool reshaping industries around the world,” he said.
Adebola noted that companies that fail to embrace technology risk becoming irrelevant, adding that AI is already improving productivity, customer experience, decision making and market intelligence.
He highlighted that SMEs will benefit significantly from digital transformation, saying that AI offers “opportunities to grow faster, optimize resources and improve resilience even in difficult economic conditions”.
He further assured that the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun remains committed to industrialization and ease of doing business.
“Ogun State recognizes Chambers of Commerce as indispensable partners in economic development. Government alone cannot promote prosperity without the private sector,” he said.
Artificial Intelligence Now a Strategic Imperative for Nigerian Businesses – NACCIMA
In his speech, the National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), noted that the adoption of AI is no longer optional but a survival strategy for businesses.
“The competitiveness of Nigerian businesses will increasingly depend on their ability to leverage digital technologies, data-driven solutions, automation and artificial intelligence,” he said.
He revealed that MSMEs account for over 39 million businesses in Nigeria, contributing about 50% of GDP and over 84% of employment.
He added that Nigeria’s digital economy, which contributes over 14% to GDP, is one of the fastest growing sectors, urging businesses to embrace digital transformation.
“Embracing AI is no longer a matter of choice; it is becoming a strategic imperative for productivity, innovation and access to global markets,” he said.
… Ogun House leader calls for unity and institutional strength
The Acting President of Ogun State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA), Elder Olatunji Adeniyi, has described the 50-year journey of ABEOCCIMA as “a story of vision kept alive”.
“Fifty years is not simply a passage of time, it is the story of a vision kept alive, of sacrifices made by men and women who believed in organized private enterprise,” he said.
He urged members to strengthen unity and collective responsibility, stressing that “strong institutions are supported not just by leaders but by members who understand that the House belongs to everyone.”
He also congratulated the newly elected leadership led by Pastor Ibrahim Bada, urging them to build on the legacy of past leaders.
New leadership is urged to deepen innovation and growth
Throughout the speeches, speakers unanimously charged the newly inaugurated Executive Committee and Board to pursue innovation, inclusiveness, strategic partnerships and capacity building.
They highlighted the need for ethical leadership, stronger business advocacy and forward-thinking policies to sustain the Chamber’s relevance in a changing economic environment.
…ABEOCCIMA at 50 years old: a legacy and a future
At the end of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to reposition ABEOCCIMA as a stronger platform for business development and economic transformation.
Shorunke summed up the spirit of the occasion, saying:
“This Golden Jubilee is a testament to your faith in this institution and in the promise of Egbaland. Let us shape the next fifty years smarter, stronger and more inclusive.”
‘
‘Want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need advertising for a product, service or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Please donate any amount HERE
