Lagos: The Strategy Advisory Committee of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has outlined priority policies, emerging risks, and new strategic pillars aimed at strengthening advocacy and value creation. The committee chairman, Mr. Olaniyi Yusuf, disclosed this in Lagos during a draft blueprint presentation for the 2026-2027 period, which was presented to the new LCCI President, Mr. Leye Kupoluyi.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Yusuf stated that the initiative is designed to boost member performance and support businesses facing global and domestic economic uncertainty. He emphasized the need for long-term planning, stronger governance structures, and deeper engagement with emerging business leaders due to Nigeria’s challenging business climate. He highlighted that rising energy costs, inflation, and geopolitical tensions are contributing to global volatility, affecting Nigeria’s trade environment, capital flows, and investment patterns. Insecurity, high debt, and inflation were noted as factors undermining competitiveness.
Yusuf mentioned that while GDP growth is projected at four percent, structural challenges continue to limit expansion. Despite modest gains in trade balance and exchange rate stability, issues persist. The committee benchmarked LCCI’s performance against other chambers and associations across Africa and beyond, noting rising competition from niche groups offering export incubation, certifications, SME support, and specialized promotions. Many organizations have expanded into areas traditionally dominated by LCCI.
He shared key findings, which included strengthening governance, refining member value, and attracting younger business leaders. Other priorities include expanding markets, enhancing capacity, deepening partnerships, and diversifying funding. Yusuf emphasized that each strategic pillar will be driven by technology, collaboration, and evidence-based engagement, recommending a stakeholder session to align leadership and produce stewardship reports for improved transparency.
The renewed strategy, according to Yusuf, will help modernize operations, strengthen LCCI’s franchise, and deliver greater value to businesses. Vice Chairman Mrs. Layo Bakare-Okeowo noted the committee’s aim to harness more opportunities beyond trade fair revenue and expressed openness to further collaboration. In response, Kupoluyi stated that the findings would guide his tenure and strengthen council decisions.