In a significant move to strengthen economic ties, the Nigeria–Central Europe Chamber of Commerce (NCECC) was officially unveiled at a high-profile dinner in Abuja on Saturday, December 18, 2025. The event marks a strategic push to enhance trade, investment, and cultural exchange between Nigeria and Central European nations.
Deepening Bilateral Relations and Economic Potential
The Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Nigeria, His Excellency Tomáš Výprachtický, used the occasion to reaffirm his country's commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria. He highlighted the long-standing political and economic relationship, noting the enduring presence of Czech companies and institutions in the country.
"When I was appointed ambassador, my main goal was to harness and boost the potential for mutual cooperation between our two countries," Ambassador Výprachtický stated. He pointed to Nigeria's abundant natural resources, human capital, and technological potential as strong foundations for expanded partnership. The ambassador also cited unique cultural exchanges, such as Nigerian priests serving in Czech monasteries over the past seven years, as evidence of the depth of bilateral relations.
The Chamber's Mandate and Ambitious Plans
Dr. Paschal Onyemaechi, President of the NCECC, explained that the duly registered chamber aims to be a pivotal platform connecting government officials, industry leaders, startups, exporters, and creatives from both regions. The chamber operates in no fewer than five countries, with a core mandate to leverage Europe's technology and business ethics alongside Africa's resources and vibrant markets.
"Our role is to promote bilateral trade, encourage investment and provide up-to-date information on markets and emerging opportunities in both regions," Dr. Onyemaechi said. He announced the chamber's flagship initiative, the New Partnership for Development of Africa (NEPDA) project. The NEPDA 2026 summit, scheduled for June 2026, plans to bring over 30 European companies to Nigeria for investment and partnership across key sectors.
He added that the NCECC, described as the first of its kind, will also focus on educational mobility, technology transfer, and creating cost-reducing arrangements for postgraduate students in partnership with the Czech Republic.
Advisory Council Inducts Prominent Nigerian Leaders
A key highlight of the launch was the induction of distinguished Nigerians into the NCECC's Advisory Council. The ceremony was conducted by Prof. Andrew Haruna, Secretary General of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities. The inductees, whose profiles were presented by Prof. Jan Zahorik of the University of West Bohemia, include:
- Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives.
- Dr. Dere Awosika, former Chairperson of Access Bank Plc.
- Dr. Jamil Gwamna, former MD/CEO of Kano Electricity Distribution Company (KEDCO).
- Dr. Rislan Kanya, Chair of Centre for Climatic Smart Agriculture, Cosmopolitan University Abuja.
Dr. Petr Markvart, Adviser to the President of the Czech Republic on Defence and Security Industries, addressed the gathering on the chamber's significance and the enduring Nigeria-Czech relationship.
The event, organised by the NCECC in partnership with the Regional Trade Institute (RTI) and the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Nigeria, was attended by numerous dignitaries from the business, religious, and diplomatic communities. This new chamber is poised to transform the trade landscape and foster a new era of strategic partnership between Nigeria and Central Europe.
