Bridge gap between policymakers, businesses, RMAFC Commissioner urges Awka chamber

Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC)

Henry Awuregu, Federal Commissioner, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), has urged the Awka Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (AWKACCIMA) to strengthen engagement between policymakers and the business community.

Awuregu spoke at the Investiture ceremony of the 13th President of AWKACCIMA, Philip Ekwempu, on Thursday in Awka.

He said that the disconnect between both segments had continued to hinder economic growth.

The event had the theme – ‘Opening New Business Frontiers and Creating Unlimited Opportunities’.

Awuregu said that businesses are the real drivers of the economy and should be adequately represented in policy formulation and implementation.

He urged the chamber to prioritise digital transformation, leverage technology to enhance operations, and promote business sustainability in line with global standards.

According to him, chambers of commerce should also take a frontline role in supporting efforts aimed at cushioning the effects of climate change on businesses.

Speaking further, he identified a widening skills gap between universities and the business sector.

“Many graduates, including first-class degree holders, lack the entrepreneurial capacity to run successful ventures despite their academic achievements.

“AWKACCIMA should collaborate with higher institutions to equip students and graduates with practical, industry-relevant skills,”he said.

Awuregu also advised the chamber to establish a data bank for businesses operating in Awka to support planning, investment and evidence-based decision-making.

He reaffirmed the commission’s readiness to continue partnering with the chamber to advance economic growth in the state and ensure a more business-friendly environment.

Also speaking, Jani Ibrahim, President, Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), described AWKACCIMA as a valuable contributor to the economic growth of Anambra and Nigeria.

Ibrahim, who was represented by Uchenna Apakama, promised to work with the new chamber executive to drive business enterprise and improve business environment.

In his address, Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure and enhancing security to position the state as destination for investors and thriving businesses.

Represented by the Commissioner for Tourism, Don Onyenji, the governor said his administration was ready to partner with the chamber to further drive economic growth in the state.

In his acceptance speech, the new President of AWKACCIMA, Ekwempu, pledged to strengthen partnerships that would boost trade and attract foreign investors for the benefit of members.

He also vowed to support entrepreneurs, promote business education and digital learning, and serve as a strong voice for the business community.

“We will engage government at all levels to advocate for policies that drive industrial growth in the state,” he said.

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