Abuja: The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has announced its readiness to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to enhance Nigeria’s economy by focusing on livestock production, genetics, veterinary services, capacity building, and modern agricultural technologies. The announcement was made by the Director-General of ACCI, Mr. Agabaidu Jideani, during a Strategic Engagement meeting with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), and other stakeholders in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Jideani emphasized the potential contributions of agribusiness, livestock development, capacity building, and investment to nation-building. He highlighted ACCI’s commitment to engaging U.S. businesses, financial institutions, and development partners to facilitate knowledge transfer, investment, and market access for Nigerian enterprises. The chamber is keen on forming partnerships that cover livestock production, genetics, veterinary services, capacity building, and modern agricultural technologies.
Mr. Jideani encouraged ACCI members to take part in exchange programs, training opportunities, and investment initiatives. He stressed the importance of sharing information on available programs, as stronger communication could enable more businesses to benefit from international partnerships. The Director-General assured that discussions with partners would continue beyond physical meetings, marking the start of a long-term relationship aimed at strengthening bilateral business cooperation.
Mr. Christopher Bielecki, Counselor for Agricultural Affairs at the USDA/FAS, stated that the department is promoting bilateral agricultural trade between Nigeria and the U.S. through partnerships and improved trade policies. He noted that capacity building is supported by funding training programs across agricultural value chains to enhance skills, promote business growth, and deepen trade between the two countries. Bielecki identified the livestock sector as a significant opportunity for expanding agricultural trade and investment, making it a priority for collaboration between Nigeria and the U.S.
Dr. Abdul Bello, National Vice-President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), advocated for a long-term livestock development strategy. He highlighted priority investment areas to boost cattle production, improve infrastructure, and strengthen livestock value chains across Nigeria. Bello called for stronger Nigeria-U.S. trade partnerships and encouraged manufacturers to export quality livestock products while creating platforms for businesses from both countries to exchange ideas and investments.
Amb. Janet Olisa, Special Adviser to the National President on International Relations, NACCIMA, called for stronger partnerships between Nigerian and U.S. businesses through structured networks. She emphasized that trusted collaborations and due diligence would boost investment and improve trade opportunities.
Alhaji Goni Dunoma, Executive Member of the Borno State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (BOCCIMA), urged for improved infrastructure to strengthen value chains and boost cattle, sheep, and goat production nationwide. He mentioned that improved disease surveillance, modern abattoirs, and stronger Nigeria-U.S. partnerships would enhance livestock exports, attract investment, and unlock the sector’s economic potential.
Mr. Bode Thompson, Vice-President, Agriculture, ACCI, praised efforts to strengthen Nigeria-U.S. agricultural collaboration and reaffirmed ACCI’s readiness to partner with government and foreign investors. The event, reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, will take place in Abuja from August 9 to August 13, serving as Africa’s premier continental gathering expected to bring together researchers, policymakers, and industry experts to address the future of livestock and agricultural systems.