The European Business Chamber (Eurocham Nigeria), last week brought together EU diplomats, business leaders and Nigerian policy makers to discuss the country’s ongoing economic reforms and their impact on business and investment. The Chamber’s annual stakeholders’ conference held at Victoria Island, Lagos, also provided a platform for dialogue on fostering sustainable growth in a transforming economic landscape such as Nigeria’s.

Themed “Achieving Growth Post-Reforms,” the conference addressed critical sectors of the economy, including trade, aviation and tourism, energy, finance, and workforce transformation, highlighting opportunities for investments and for collaboration between the public and private sectors.

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In a keynote speech, the EU Ambassador, who is also the Honorary President of Eurocham Nigeria, Mr. Gautier Mignot, restated the EU’s commitment to Nigeria’s economic transformation, outlining ongoing efforts to bolster trade relations and unlock investment potential, positioning Nigeria as a key partner in the region. “This conference is a celebration of that collaboration and our shared purpose, reflecting the enduring ties between the EU and Nigeria as we pursue sustainable and inclusive economic growth,” he said.

Noting that Eurocham’s alignment with EU values and principles would remain central to this partnership, he stressed the need for strong governance, effective coordination with EU Member States, and collaboration with bilateral chambers. According to Amb Mignot, “by building on what has been achieved so far, we pave the way for even greater opportunities in key areas like trade, investment, and infrastructure development.”

He drew the attention of the European businesses to Investments opportunities that abound in Nigeria’s agricultural and renewable sectors, local manufacturing of vaccines, sustainable transportation, and expressed the hope that the Chamber would play an active role in identifying opportunities, aggregating investors and advocating for a conducive business environment. “These projects are prime examples of how European values translate into sustainable investments with tangible impacts, addressing both environmental and social priorities.”

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In a welcome speech, President of Eurocham Nigeria, Mr. Yann Gilbert, stressed the organization’s role in advocating for policies that drive economic growth and enhance EU-Nigeria business relations. “Eurocham Nigeria is committed to supporting pro-business policies, advocating for regulatory improvements, and driving initiatives that enhance economic cooperation between Nigeria and the EU,” he stated.

The Director-General of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Ms Zahrah Mustapha Audu, briefed participants on the Nigerian government’s ongoing ease-of-doing-business reforms, while a senior aide of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Ms. Janet Oputa, spoke on ongoing infrastructure developments and emerging investment opportunities in the aviation industry. 

A major highlight of the event was the formal launch of the implementation of the €300,000 grant provided by the EU to support the further development of the Chamber’s activities in Nigeria.

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