Abuja: The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has called for policy consistency, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) protection, and private sector-led growth to strengthen Nigeria’s economy in 2026. The President of the chamber, Chief Emeka Obegolu, made the call in a New Year message by ACCI Media and Strategy Officer, Mrs. Olayemi John-Mensah, on Thursday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Obegolu said consistent policies and private-sector-friendly reforms were critical to reducing the cost of doing business and achieving sustainable economic development. He emphasized the need for strong protection of MSMEs, describing them as the backbone of the Nigerian economy. Sustained stakeholder engagement and predictable reforms, he noted, would encourage investment and business expansion.
The ACCI president expressed cautious optimism about business opportunities in 2026, in spite of global and domestic economic pressures affecting businesses. He commended Nigerian businesses for their resilience and adaptability in navigating the economic challenges of 2025, highlighting their commitment to innovation and value creation despite inflation and foreign exchange volatility.
Obegolu also mentioned high energy costs, rising interest rates, and limited access to finance as key constraints faced by enterprises. These challenges, he stated, underscored the importance of chambers of commerce in advocating stability and competitiveness. Economic reforms, he warned, should be carefully sequenced to safeguard MSMEs and organized businesses, as poorly managed reforms could result in business closures, job losses, and capital flight.
Attention was drawn to over N720 billion in outstanding contractor debts owed by the government, with delayed settlements weakening cash flows and disrupting supply chains, particularly affecting indigenous contractors and MSMEs nationwide. He urged the government to prioritize transparent verification and timely settlement of the debts to stimulate economic activity.
Obegolu also called on the Federal Government and the FCT Administration to create a more enabling and predictable business environment, noting that Abuja had evolved into a major commercial and investment hub requiring stronger infrastructure and regulatory support. He reaffirmed ACCI’s commitment to constructive engagement with the government to promote ease of doing business and inclusive economic growth. Obegolu extended New Year greetings to Nigerians, particularly members of the business community in the Federal Capital Territory and its environs.