By Esther Onyegbula

Mr Ashamu Fadipe has assumed office as the third president of the Badagry Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, BACCIMA, with a mandate to deepen business advocacy, attract investment and strengthen cross-border trade in Badagry.

Fadipe took over from Alhaji Yahaya Idris, who completed his two-year tenure, at a handing-over ceremony on Saturday at Hunwaji Hotel, Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State.

The 2nd Deputy President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, NACCIMA, Dr Michael Olawale-Cole, who chaired the ceremony, urged the new administration to strengthen private sector participation in Badagry’s investment opportunities.

Olawale-Cole, who represented the National President of NACCIMA, Engr Jani Ibrahim, said Fadipe assumed office at a time businesses required strong representation, constructive policy engagement and practical support.

He also urged the chamber to strengthen cross-border trade and facilitate partnerships with government agencies and business organisations.

According to him, Badagry’s location along the Lagos-West African corridor and proximity to the Republic of Benin offered significant opportunities in cross-border trade, logistics and investment.

Olawale-Cole said the area’s coastal resources, agricultural and fisheries activities, tourism, hospitality and growing creative economy further enhanced its economic potential.

He said Lagos State had identified infrastructure development in Badagry as having the potential to improve trade, commerce, tourism and other economic activities in the area.

He expressed confidence that Fadipe would advance the interests of BACCIMA members and create greater opportunities, particularly for micro, small and medium enterprises.

Olawale-Cole said NACCIMA remained committed to working with BACCIMA and other chambers across the country to promote a sustainable business environment.

Speaking on his tenure, the outgoing president, Idris, said his administration focused on result-oriented leadership and strengthening the chamber’s institutional foundation.

He said the administration stabilised BACCIMA and organised its maiden trade fair in May 2026.

Idris also said it established and launched the BACCIMA Cooperative Society, which, according to him, continued to grow.

He said the chamber strengthened engagements with key border agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, NDLEA, NAFDAC, Port Health and the police, as well as cross-border traders, logistics providers and freight associations.

According to Idris, the administration championed the Federal Government’s National Biometric Project for ECOWAS mobility and advocated the proposed Badagry Deep Sea Port project.

He said he also conceptualised the “Invest Badagry” initiative to attract global investment, adding that Badagry Local Government had adopted it as an implementing partner.

Idris said BACCIMA strengthened ties with the regional offices of the Benin Chamber of Commerce and Industry through joint roundtables and orientation sessions aimed at formalising informal trade corridors and promoting stronger business relations.

He attributed the achievements to the support of leaders, partners and associates of the chamber.

Idris congratulated Fadipe and expressed confidence that he would build on the foundation laid by the outgoing administration through diligence, consultation and collaboration.

In his acceptance remarks, Fadipe said he was honoured to become the third president of BACCIMA.

He promised to work with former presidents, members of the chamber and other stakeholders to consolidate the progress already recorded.

Dignitaries at the event included Hon Babatunde Hunpe, Chairman, Badagry Local Government; Mr Alogba, who represented the Lagos State Commissioner for Trade and Commerce; Alhaji Fatai Shokunbi, pioneer president of BACCIMA; and Oba Oyekan Adekanmi Ilufemiloye Ajose Possi III, the Alapa of Apa kingdom.

Members of the chamber and other stakeholders also attended the ceremony.