…sets agenda for Kalabari economic revival
The Kalabari Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KALCCIMA) has inaugurated a new Executive Council, with a renewed pledge to champion economic growth, enterprise development and investment opportunities across Kalabari communities.
The inauguration was performed by the National Deputy President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Chief (Dr.) Emi Membere-Otaji.
Membere-Otaji tasked the new leadership with repositioning the chamber as a strategic driver of inclusive development, while strengthening collaboration with government and private sector institutions.
Those inducted include Elder Monima Daminabo (President), Amb. Clement Akanibo (1st Deputy President), Boma Kaladokubo (2nd Deputy President), and Harry Awolayeofori Macmorrison (Executive Secretary/Director-General). Others are Faaye Franklin (Treasurer), Engr. Robinson Success (Financial Secretary), Ibiba Don-Pedro (Public Relations Officer), Princess Nancy Boma Princewill (Organising Secretary), Barr. Igbikioyibo Fortune Igbikikuno (Legal Adviser), and Abiye George (Welfare Officer).
Speaking after administering the oath of office, Membere-Otaji said the chamber must evolve into a rallying point for entrepreneurs, investors and policymakers. He noted that Kalabari possesses “immense untapped potential” in commerce, agriculture, maritime business and extractive industries, urging KALCCIMA to deploy professionalism and innovation to attract investments and stimulate job creation.
“The chamber must become a structure that supports enterprise. Kalabari has immense economic potential, and KALCCIMA must provide the leadership to unlock it,” he said.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Pastor Prince Billy Sotubo Gillis-Harry, in his keynote charge, called for unity, discipline and measurable results, rather than mere ceremonial visibility. He said the new executive must prioritise programmes that empower youths and women, support small businesses and enhance community prosperity.
In his acceptance remarks, Elder Daminabo expressed gratitude to NACCIMA, the Board of Trustees and stakeholders for their support. He pledged that the administration would pursue partnerships, capacity-building and sector-focused initiatives in trade, agriculture, maritime industry and small-scale manufacturing.
“We will work to reposition KALCCIMA as a credible force for advocacy and development, a platform where businesses grow and Kalabari’s economic voice is heard,” he said.
Goodwill messages from professionals and business leaders including Hon. Arc. Eniye Braide, Arc. Danny Sokari George and Ebianga Bestmann commended the inauguration and expressed optimism that the new executive will elevate the chamber’s relevance. They urged the council to leverage the region’s strategic location, cultural heritage and human resource potential to drive economic prosperity in Rivers State and Nigeria.
The event ended with a renewed sense of commitment from members and invited guests, who expressed hope that the incoming leadership will restore KALCCIMA’s influence and usher in a new era of growth for the Kalabari nation.
