FG pledges stronger trade ties with Indonesia

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening trade and investment partnerships between Nigeria and Indonesia through active collaboration with the private sector.

This assurance was given by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Entrepreneurship Development, Ms. Chalya Shagaya, during the Mid-Year Economic Outlook event themed “Building Resilience in Turbulent Times”, organised by the Nigerian Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI) in Lagos.

Ms. Shagaya also pledged the government’s support for the upcoming Nigeria-Indonesian Investment and Trade Forum, scheduled to hold in Jakarta, Indonesia, from October 21 to 23, 2025. She explained that the administration is dedicated to collaborating with institutions like NICCI to promote entrepreneurship, boost bilateral trade, and attract smart investments into both countries.

Highlighting the crucial role of entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s economic growth, the presidential aide said, “Nigeria’s entrepreneurs are not waiting for the perfect conditions. They are building the future now and, with the right support, they will not just survive the storm but dance in the rain.”

She described Nigerian entrepreneurs as more than business owners, identifying them as job creators, problem solvers, and brand ambassadors who are helping to build resilience in the country’s economy. According to her, the Tinubu-led administration recognises their importance and is working on practical policies that offer real and accessible support beyond political rhetoric.

In his address, NICCI President, Ishmael Balogun, urged Nigerian businesses to take advantage of the upcoming 40th edition of the Indonesian Joint Expo, holding from October 15 to 19, 2025, in Jakarta. He noted that the event presents a vital opportunity to deepen international business partnerships and economic collaboration between Nigerian and Indonesian enterprises.

Balogun also disclosed that NICCI is working closely with the office of the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, who has directed the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) to coordinate several federal ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to offer full support for the business delegation participating in the Expo.