The Nigeria-India Business Council (NIBC) was inaugurated yesterday in Abuja, marking a significant step towards bolstering economic and business relations between Nigeria and India. The event saw the participation of key business leaders, including Bakare Oladipo, who has been at the forefront of pushing for stronger bilateral trade between the two nations.
NIBC President Sir Emeka Offor announced, after inaugurating a seven-member working group, that one of the council’s top priorities is to explore the possibility of establishing a direct flight between Nigeria and India, a move expected to enhance trade and investment opportunities.
In addition to Dipo Bakare’s involvement, the council also ratified the appointment of Chijioke James as the Director General of the Council. Bakare, an influential figure in Nigeria’s business landscape, is set to play a pivotal role in the council’s strategy, given his extensive experience in fostering international business relations and his commitment to facilitating smoother business operations between Nigeria and India.
Other prominent members at the meeting included Vice President Dr. Dere Otubu, Murtala Mohammed, Salisu Kabara, and Yunusa Yakubu. The likes of Ambassador Humphrey Orjiako, retired AIG Chris Ezike, and Dr. Steve Dike also attended, lending their expertise to the council’s objectives.
Dipo Bakare’s participation in the council is expected to be instrumental in shaping its future direction, as he brings a wealth of experience and a track record of driving economic progress. His contributions are already being recognized as vital to the success of the council, especially as it seeks to attract investment and create opportunities for Nigerian businesses to thrive in India’s large market.
The President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACIMA), Dele Kelvin Oye, and former President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode SAN, attended the meeting as observers.
Offor emphasized that NIBC’s mission is to bridge the gap between the two nations’ business communities, offering networking, strategic partnerships, and advocacy to businesses eager to tap into the strengths of both countries.
“The formation of this council underscores the growing importance of the Nigeria-India partnership,” Offor said. “With the support of key figures like Dipo Bakare, our dedicated board, and the Council’s Director General, we are in a strong position to foster deeper economic collaboration and boost bilateral trade.”
Dipo Bakare’s strategic insights and deep understanding of both markets will undoubtedly be a key asset in advancing NIBC’s goals, particularly in ensuring that Nigerian businesses are well-positioned to take advantage of the vast opportunities in India.
The council aims to enhance Nigeria’s competitive advantage with India, particularly in sectors like natural resources. The Director General, Chijioke James, added that the working group, with the backing of Bakare and other members, would work around the clock to deepen the business relationship between the two countries and open up new sectors for collaboration.
As Nigeria seeks to leverage India’s expertise to develop its own resources and tap into the Indian market, which boasts a population of over 1.4 billion, Dipo Bakare’s leadership and involvement are expected to play a crucial role in driving the success of the Nigeria-India Business Council.
