The Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) has launched its Africa Hub in Lagos, Nigeria, to amplify private-sector leadership as a driver of democratic resilience and inclusive growth.

Andrew Wilson, CIPE’s global executive director, said  the hub would  bolster governance, promote private-sector-led solutions to corruption and inequitable growth.

The theme of the event is:  ‘Catalysing Private Sector Led Growth for Democratic Stability in Africa.’

CIPE is an American non-profit organisation affiliated with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and a core institute of the National Endowment for Democracy.

Mr Wilson added that it also supported business associations to operate independently while cultivating trusted investment climates.

According to him, the hub is a continent-wide platform that empowers the private sector to drive economic growth, democratic accountability, and catalyse investment across Africa.

“The Africa Hub unites CIPE’s networks, expertise, and Programmes to scale impact across the continent.

“With over 40 years of experience, CIPE has worked in more than 130 countries, including 23 in Africa, supporting over 530 African chambers, associations, and membership organisations.

“These partnerships enable entrepreneurs from informal traders in Zimbabwe to women business leaders in Ethiopia to shape policy while building organisations that improve governance, transparency, and competitiveness.

“The CIPE Africa Hub represents a new era of opportunity for the continent’s private sector.

“Our mission is to strengthen democracy worldwide through private enterprise and market-oriented reform.”

Mr Wilson highlighted the objectives of the CIPE’s new Hub, which included: driving cross-border collaboration, supporting trade governance, and expanding programmes for women, youth, and MSMEs.

“By advancing integrity and innovation, the CIPE Africa Hub positions Africa’s private sector at the heart of shaping the continent’s democratic and economic future.”

Lola Adekanye, CIPE Africa regional director, said the Hub broadened governance and amplified businesses’ voice in policymaking.

According to her, it serves as a base for stakeholders to connect and share with each other.

She added that it helped build sustainable economies that benefitted communities across the continent.

“In bringing decades of experience and partnerships under one platform, we are creating a space where African business leaders can drive sustainable growth, boost democratic resilience, and expand inclusive economic opportunities across the region.”

Gabriel Idahosa, president of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the Africa Hub offered a timely platform for businesses and associations to collaborate across borders.

He noted that it built integrity into markets and created the trust needed to attract investment and deepen democratic stability.

The high point of the event was the presentation of awards, celebrating excellence and long-standing partnerships with the CIPE.

These awards acknowledged outstanding contributions and dedication to promoting private sector-led economic growth, democratic institutions, and market-oriented reforms.

Some of the recipients are the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, FX360 Zimbabwe, Lola Adekanye, and CIPE Africa regional director, among others.

(NAN)