Victor Ezeja
The National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Dele Oye, has said there are no plans to cancel the Business and Investment Forum in Doha, Qatar scheduled between 2 and 3 March, 2024.
Oye, in a statement, said the summit is organized in partnership with the Qatari Chambers of Commerce and Industry to provide an unparalleled platform for Nigerian businesses to engage with their Qatari counterparts.
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The statement followed reports that Qatari authorities declined the proposed investment forum to be attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing the unavailability of the country’s minister of commerce and industry, Mohammed Bin Hamad Al-Thani.
The Qatari Government has however explained that the investment forum between the Nigerian and Qatari business communities was only one of several events lined up ahead of President Tinubu’s state visit to the Gulf country.
Oye in a statement said, “In light of recent developments and the circulating news regarding the upcoming Business and Investment Forum scheduled to be held in Qatar, we, at the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), wish to address our valued members, business community, and all involved stakeholders.
“We acknowledge the concerns raised following the leak of diplomatic correspondence that has led to some uncertainty regarding the Forum. We would like to clarify that this event is a significant element of the broader context of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to Qatar, scheduled between 2 and 3 March 2024. This visit underscores the strong commitment between Nigeria and the State of Qatar to deepen bilateral economic cooperation.
The Business and Investment Forum, organized in collaboration with Qatar’s Chambers of Commerce and Industry, is designed to provide an unparalleled platform for Nigerian businesses to engage with their Qatari counterparts. This event aims to explore commercial and investment opportunities across key sectors, including oil & gas, manufacturing, agrobusiness, construction, real estate, ICT, renewable energy, solid minerals, and the service sector.”
According to him, “We understand that the leaked information may have caused concerns regarding the status of the Forum. We wish to reassure all prospective participants and our business community that the event is being prepared with the highest level of dedication and professionalism, aiming to foster stronger business ties between our two countries.
“As we navigate through these moments, we ask for your patience and understanding. We are in close communication with the relevant authorities and stakeholders, and we intend to provide a comprehensive update and advisory regarding the trip on or before 5pm on 25/2/24. Please rest assured that no decision to cancel the event has been made at this point.”
The NACCIMA boss added, “We appreciate your trust and support in NACCIMA and remain committed to facilitating a successful and fruitful Business and Investment Forum in Qatar. Your participation and engagement in this event are invaluable to us, and we look forward to exploring new horizons for Nigerian businesses on the international stage.”
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
