The Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC) is poised to mark a significant milestone, its 65th anniversary, with a grand gala and the inauguration of its 20th president, Alhaji Sheriff Balogun, on April 12, 2025. This prestigious event, themed “The Power of Co-operation: 65 Years of Optimising Nigerian-American Economic Relations,” will be held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, and promises to be a convergence of prominent political and business leaders from both nations. The occasion will not only celebrate the Chamber’s rich history and contributions to bilateral trade but also unveil its ambitious plans for the future, including the proposed construction of a new multi-storey headquarters building.
The gala will feature a distinguished roster of attendees and honorees, reflecting the Chamber’s enduring influence and broad network. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State will serve as the chief host, joined by other notable political figures such as Honourable Tajudeen Abbas, Senator Barau Jibrin, and several state governors. The event will also recognize the contributions of influential figures from various sectors, including Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Hon. Hannatu Musa Musawa, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, and Dr. John Momoh. Furthermore, the NACC will bestow honors upon prominent individuals like His Excellency Americo D’Oliveira Dos Ramos, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, and Nigerian business leaders such as Aare Afe Babalola, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, Prince Arthur Eze, and Chief Pius Akinyelure.
In a poignant tribute, the NACC will posthumously honor individuals who have made significant contributions to Nigerian-American relations and business development. These include the late Ambassador Walter Carrington, former United States Ambassador to Nigeria; the late Mr. Richard Kramer, founder and CEO of African Capital Alliance Limited; and the late Mr. Sylvester Turner, the 62nd Mayor of Houston, Texas. Their legacies will be remembered and celebrated for their impact on fostering stronger ties between the two nations.
Adding to the prestige of the event, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, will be the special guest of honor, while His Royal Highness Malam Dr. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, Emir of Zazzau, will serve as the royal father of the day. Mr. Samaila Zubairu, President of the Africa Finance Corporation, will also grace the occasion. This gathering of dignitaries underscores the importance of the NACC’s role in promoting economic cooperation and development.
Beyond individual recognition, the NACC will also acknowledge the contributions of outstanding Nigerian and American companies that have played a pivotal role in strengthening bilateral trade relations and driving economic growth. Former presidents of the Chamber will also be honored for their dedicated service and leadership in advancing the organization’s mission. The gala enjoys significant corporate support from leading companies such as Mainstream Energy Solutions, Zenith Carex, FastCredit, The Coca-Cola Company, Flour Mills Nigeria, Stanbic IBTC, PWC, Turkish Airlines, Lagos Continental Hotel, EightMedical, FortuneGlobal, and Zenith Bank, demonstrating the wide-reaching impact of the NACC within the business community.
The 65th-anniversary celebration and 20th presidential inauguration will be widely publicized, with media partners including Channels TV, BusinessDay, Studio24, The Cable, Naija Times, Lagos Post, and Freelanews providing extensive coverage. This media presence will help amplify the NACC’s message and further highlight the importance of Nigerian-American economic cooperation. The event promises to be a significant landmark in the Chamber’s history, reaffirming its commitment to fostering stronger ties between Nigeria and the United States and paving the way for a new era of collaboration and growth.
The NACC’s six-decade-long journey reflects its enduring dedication to facilitating business development, networking, and strategic trade cooperation between Nigeria and the United States. This upcoming gala serves not just as a celebratory milestone but also as a springboard for continued growth and impactful collaborations under the new leadership of Alhaji Sheriff Balogun. It represents a renewed commitment to strengthening the economic bridge between the two nations and fostering opportunities for mutual prosperity. The event will showcase the achievements of the past while setting the stage for a future of enhanced partnerships and economic progress.
