By Toheeb Babalola
The Delta State Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (DACCIMA) has inaugurated a new eight-member executive council to steer the affairs of the association for the next two years.
The new executives, drawn from DACCIMA’s affiliate chambers across the state, include Engr. Anthony Okoh (President), Lucky Otegheri (1st Deputy President), Davidson Urietowhado (2nd Deputy President), Bamidele Ayodele (Financial Secretary), Dennis Nwanoye (Treasurer), Afoke Koko (Publicity Secretary), Favour Akprochinwrae (Welfare Officer), and one other yet-to-be-named candidate (Vice President).
The inauguration ceremony, held during the association’s 12th Annual General Meeting and Investiture Ceremony at Topview Hotel, Okpanam Road, Asaba, had representatives from the Delta State Government, traditional rulers, and key players in the business ecosystem in attendance.
In his valedictory speech, the outgoing president, Dr. Anthony Idigbe, SAN, represented by the presiding chairman of the event, Chief Simon Asite, outlined the landmark achievements of his administration. These include:
- Creation of the association’s website and social media platforms
- Reactivation of the association’s bank account
- Registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
- Establishment of an Arbitration Centre in Asaba to provide alternative dispute resolution mechanisms for business owners across the Southern region
- Organization of trainings, webinars, and business development programs for members
- Signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with reputable firms to organize a Trade Fair in Osubi – though the initiative was stalled due to land-related issues
Dr. Idigbe urged the Delta State Government to partner with the new administration to ensure the actualization of the proposed Trade Fair, which he described as a significant initiative to boost the state’s economic activities.
“We congratulate the new president, Engr. Anthony Okoh of Warri Chamber of Commerce, on his election. We regard him as a worthy successor and are confident he will successfully carry the torch,” he concluded.
In his inaugural address, the newly elected President, Engr. Anthony Okoh, pledged to reposition DACCIMA as a formidable voice for the private sector in Delta State and a strategic partner to the government.
Okoh commended the Delta State Government for approving a ₦1 billion intervention loan for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through the Bank of Industry, describing the initiative as a game-changer in boosting entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic development.
“This single-digit loan program will go a long way in stimulating business growth, generating employment, and strengthening the state’s economy,” he said.
The new president also announced his administration’s commitment to promoting women entrepreneurs and youth inclusivity in the association’s activities.
“We will create more women millionaires during my tenure by providing a conducive business environment and targeted support for women-owned businesses.
“Also, the Youth Entrepreneurs Development Initiative will be given special attention, with regular training and mentorship programs to increase youth participation in DACCIMA’s activities,” Okoh assured.
During the event, the Coordinator of DACCIMA Women Group, Ms. Erhumun Ekperanum, challenged the leadership to ensure greater inclusion of women in the association’s decision-making processes.
Her call was later acknowledged by the presiding chairman, paving the way for more gender-balanced representation in the association’s activities.
As part of the ceremony, the Vice President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Mrs. Patricia Idiakhoa, alongside other stakeholders, commissioned the newly renovated DACCIMA Secretariat Building at the NACO office in Asaba.
The event was graced by dignitaries including representatives of the Delta State Government, the Asagba of Asaba, and other key players in the state’s economic development landscape.
With the new leadership in place, stakeholders expressed optimism that DACCIMA will play a pivotal role in promoting business-friendly policies and fostering sustainable economic growth in Delta State.