By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

ABUJA —A Nigeria firm, Merited Negotiation Consulting has formalized a strategic partnership with the Office of the Mayor of Niagara Falls City, Canada, to host the Canada–Nigeria Sustainable Investment and Business Forum Summit 2026, aimed at strengthening diplomatic, trade, and investment ties between both countries.

The summit, scheduled for August–September 2026 in Niagara Falls, will bring together policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to explore opportunities across key sectors including oil and gas, aviation development, ICT and communications, tourism, urban housing, agriculture, and health infrastructure.

The partnership was reaffirmed during a meeting held on October 17, 2025, where Michael Warchala, Manager of Economic Development at the City of Niagara Falls’ Business Development Department, confirmed the city’s readiness to host the high-level forum. Warchala highlighted Niagara Falls’ robust investment support systems and incentives designed to attract and retain international investors.

Speaking on the significance of the summit, Sammy Atoki, CEO and Contract Facilitator, Canada, described the forum as a platform that will deliver substantial diplomatic, trade, and investment value to both Canada and Nigeria.

He noted that industry leaders, particularly from the aviation and agricultural sectors, are expected to play a prominent role in shaping discussions and outcomes.

Dr. Judith Mayen Ogbara, Managing Director of Stallionaire Oil and Gas, expressed confidence that the summit would create meaningful opportunities for investors in both countries, especially within the oil and gas sector, where collaboration and technology exchange remain critical.

Kunle Yusuff, FINCSD, MON, Executive Vice-Chairman of Merited Negotiation Consulting, described Niagara Falls City as an ideal venue for the summit, citing its global appeal and strong economic potential.

He noted that the city attracts between 12 and 14 million tourists annually, offering significant exposure and growth opportunities for investors and participating businesses.

According to Yusuff, the summit will also serve as a strategic platform to promote the Diplomatic Hope Agenda of Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to international partnerships, sustainable development, and foreign direct investment.

The forum is expected to draw participants from diverse sectors, with Canada’s Trade Department and Nigeria’s Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Foreign Affairs collaborating closely with Merited Negotiation Consulting to ensure seamless coordination and impactful outcomes.

Merited Negotiation Consulting is a leading international consulting firm specializing in business development and investment facilitation, providing tailored solutions for governments and private-sector stakeholders.

Niagara Falls City, located in Ontario, Canada, is widely recognized for its natural attractions, cultural diversity, and thriving economy, making it a prime destination for global investment and international engagement.