New NACCIMA Leadership to Drive Youth-Led Industrial Growth in Taraba

The Taraba State Chapter of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) Youth Entrepreneurs has inaugurated its new leadership, with a pledge to drive youth-led industrial and economic growth across the state.

The inauguration ceremony, held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, in Jalingo, brought together key stakeholders from government ministries, the private sector, and business organizations.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were the HonourableCommissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Isa Mohammed Hamza; the Vice President of NACCIMA, Hon. High Chief Obi; the Director-General of the Taraba Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (TACCIMA), Dr. Ben Zhema; and the State Coordinator of the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr. Ahmed Ahijo Tijjani.

Also present were Mr. Abdulmalik Haruna of the Taraba Investment and Property Development Company; Dorothy BaniFaransa, CEO of Jemethro Nigeria Limited; Prince Gara Nongaof the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), represented by Comrade Bashir Mustapha Yusuf, Deputy Chairman of the NYCN Taraba Chapter; Hon. Sahu S. Kumba of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Taraba State Chapter; Mr. Njeke, former Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry; Mr. Ahmad Sajo Abubakar, former Director, Ministry of Commerce and Industry; and Mr. Abuchi Nwazulu, MD/CEO of Global M. Co. Ltd.

In his opening address, the State Coordinator of NACCIMA Youth Entrepreneurs, Mr. Nurudeen Mohammed Manzo, called on Taraba youths to embrace entrepreneurship and innovation as key drivers of development. He assured that the new leadership will work closely with both government and private sector partners to create meaningful opportunities for youth empowerment and economic inclusion.

"The future of Taraba's economy lies in the hands of its young entrepreneurs," Manzo said. "We are building a generation that will not wait for jobs but will create industries and opportunities that transform communities."

Delivering his goodwill message, the Director-General of TACCIMA, Dr. Ben Zhema, urged the newly inaugurated executives to take their responsibilities seriously, noting that the Chamber provides a strong platform for learning, innovation, and leadership.

Representing the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, Dr. Isa Mohammed Hamza commended the initiative and reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to supporting NACCIMA Youth Entrepreneurs.

"The Taraba State Government is proud to identify with this youth-led initiative," he said. "We believe entrepreneurship is the foundation of economic transformation, and our ministry will continue to provide the policy support and partnerships needed to help young people turn their business ideas into sustainable enterprises."

Also speaking, the NACCIMA Vice President, Hon. High Chief Obi, described the inauguration as timely and strategic in driving youth inclusion in commerce and industry.

"Youth are the lifeblood of Nigeria's economy," he said. "With the right mentorship, access to finance, and market opportunities, they can redefine how business is done across Taraba and beyond."

Certificates of appointment were presented to the new State Executive Committee, Business District Leaders, City Chambers, and Standing Committee Chairpersons. The appointees pledged to uphold the ideals of NACCIMA Youth Entrepreneurs and to promote youth participation in trade and enterprise development.

The inauguration, according to participants, marks a new chapter for youth entrepreneurship in Taraba State, aligning with the broader vision of economic diversification and industrial advancement championed by the state government.