The Badagry Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (BACCIMA) has partnered with the Badagry Local Government in Lagos to transform the border town into a major commercial hub.

Yahaya Idris, BACCIMA’s president, said this during a courtesy visit to the new chairman of the council, Babatunde Hunpe, on Monday in Badagry.

Mr Idris said the partnership would create sustainable jobs, empower women and youth, and solidify Nigeria’s leadership in regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“We want a strategic partnership in the area of policy advocacy with the council supporting Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with access to single-digit loans, capacity building, and business sensitisation,” said Mr Idris.

He said BACCIMA planned to host a local trade fair to showcase the commercial opportunities in Badagry, noting that cross-border traders need constant training on customs and other agencies’ documentation.

The BACCIMA president said the partnership would also involve youth empowerment and skills development programmes on entrepreneurship, vocational training, and digital skills.

“Infrastructure and business environment advocacy for improved road networks, markets, and trade facilities to enhance businesses.

“Tourism and creative economy, positioning Badagry as a heritage and trade tourism hub, with events that blend culture and commerce.

“As a grassroots government, BACCIMA needs your financial support to be able to carry out some of our responsibilities till we will be able to stand on our feet,” Mr Idris said.

The BACCIMA president congratulated Mr Hunpe on his election victory as the chairman of the council, saying his emergence showed that he was a progressive politician.

Responding, the chairman said the council would support initiatives to bring development, investments, and investors to the town.

Mr Hunpe commended the chamber for its activities in the town, stressing, “Nothing is bad in a partnership that will bring good results.”

(NAN)