Onitsha (Anambra) – The new President of Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ONICCIMA), Mr Uche Apakama, has promised to unite the three chambers of commerce in Anambra.
Apakama told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Onitsha that such unity would make the chambers to speak with one voice on issues concerning trade and commerce.
“I want a situation where we will have one voice, enlighten and unite traders and manufacturers more in Anambra and the South-East.
“I will work for unified trade fair yearly, which will be tagged `Anambra International Fair’, which will not just promote trade and commerce but the rich culture of the state,’’ he said.
He said that ONICCIMA would vigorously pursue an effective and responsive leadership guided by consistent interventions on issues of the business community in the area.
“I will make it imperative that all industrialists, business operators, service providers, market associations and professional bodies in Onitsha will appreciate the need to belong to the chamber,’’ he said.
The president said that he would work toward the realization of the four-point development agenda of Gov. Willie Obiano’s administration.
He said that the chamber would relate with relevant ministries, agencies and departments as well as development partners to create opportunities and assist in driving Obiano’s the state government’s developmental plan.
He stated that the chamber would play a leading role in the drafting of Anambra economic policies by establishing a formidable team of experts that would advise and complement effort of the government.
“ONICCIMA under my watch is determined to establish a cordial working relationship with Anambra State House of Assembly in making good legislation for the state.
“ONICCIMA is equally poised to facilitate trade in Onitsha by offering services like letters of reference and the processing of travel documents such as visas for members of the chamber.
“Our chamber, in collaboration with NACCIMA, will provide opportunities for members in international trade through trade missions in and outside Nigeria and assist in reaching bilateral trade agreement with interested parties,’’ he said. (NAN)