12/04/2026
KANO TAKES CENTRE STAGE AS NACCIMA COUNCIL MEETING BLENDS POLICY DIALOGUE WITH CULTURAL SPLENDOUR
By Tijjani Sarki
Trade Fair Complex, Kano
For two days, Kano did more than host a meeting, it staged a compelling statement of intent. As delegates from across the federation converged for the 1st Quarter Council Meeting of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, the city fused policy, culture, and commerce into a confident showcase of its economic relevance.
Proceedings opened on 8th April 2026 with the Executive Committee (EXCO) session and the 1st Quarter Council Meeting at the Coronation Hall, presided over by the President of NACCIMA, Engr Jani Ibrahim, setting a focused tone for private sector-driven dialogue. The high-level meeting was further graced by Nigeria’s Ambassador to China, Gen Abdurrahman Bello Dambazau, whose presence underscored the strategic importance of the gathering.
Government’s alignment with private sector aspirations was clearly articulated early in the proceedings. The Executive Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, was represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, who reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring a conducive, hitch-free environment for private sector growth and commercial activities. He also made a strong appeal for Kano State to host a campus of the proposed NACCIMA University, citing the state’s historic and strategic position in commerce and trade.
Under the leadership of the President of the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Amb Usman Hassan Darma, the meeting moved beyond routine deliberations to address pressing institutional priorities.
At its core was a clear and resonant message, the Organized Private Sector must be fully represented and firmly embedded in national economic decision-making. KACCIMA renewed its call for the restoration of its full rights within NACCIMA, stressing that inclusion is essential for institutional balance, credibility, and effectiveness.
In a forward-looking highlight, Engr Jani Ibrahim disclosed that plans are underway to establish a NACCIMA University, a strategic initiative aimed at building capacity, promoting entrepreneurship, and strengthening the knowledge base of Nigeria’s business community.
The formal sessions transitioned into a warm Welcome Dinner at the KACCIMA Secretariat, creating space for meaningful engagement among delegates and reinforcing a shared commitment to collaboration.
Beyond the meeting rooms, Kano opened its landscape to delegates. Guided tours across the state capital showcased ongoing infrastructural development, including the Government House corridor in Nassarawa GRA, with key routes such as Lodge Road reflecting a city undergoing steady modernization while retaining its commercial identity.
Project visits reinforced this narrative, the Sickle Cell Centre at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital and the Dan’agundi and Tal’udu Flyovers stood as visible markers of investment in health and mobility, critical enablers of economic productivity.
At the historic Kurmi Market, commerce spoke for itself. Led by the Sarkin Kasuwa, delegates experienced the scale and vibrancy of one of West Africa’s oldest trading hubs, reaffirming Kano’s enduring role in regional trade.
Cultural diplomacy added colour and depth to the programme. The grand Durbar delivered a striking display of tradition and prestige, while a visit to the Emir’s Palace offered historical perspective through tours of Soron Ingila and Soron Bello, complemented by a film presentation by Dr. Nasir Wada Khalil. Delegates were formally received on behalf of His Highness, Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, by councillors led by the Matawallen Kano, Alhaji Aliyu Ahmed Ibrahim, a moment that symbolised the enduring linkage between tradition and governance.
The programme reached a high point with a Gala Night at the Trade Fair Open Arena, where business leaders, policymakers, and industry captains gathered in an atmosphere of elegance and purposeful networking, further strengthening relationships within the Organized Private Sector.
Throughout the engagements, a consistent theme resonated, deepening synergy between government and the private sector. KACCIMA emphasized the importance of appointing individuals with real business experience into key economic roles to ensure policies remain practical, responsive, and growth-oriented.
By the close of proceedings, the message was unmistakable, Kano is not merely participating in Nigeria’s economic conversation, it is helping to shape it.
A city rooted in history, advancing with purpose.
A private sector asserting its voice.
And a Chamber determined to lead the way.