Lagos: The Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), University of Lagos (UNILAG), and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) have launched the Association and Chamber Excellence (ACE) Certification programme in Nigeria. Mr. Andrew Wilson, CIPE’s Global Executive Director, announced that the initiative aims to enhance the capacity of chambers and associations.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the ACE programme was inaugurated through a collaboration between CIPE, UNILAG’s Human Resource Department, and NACCIMA. Wilson emphasized the importance of chambers and associations as vital platforms for shaping inclusive, market-driven policies and highlighted the programme’s focus on strengthening governance, leadership, and operational effectiveness within business membership organisations in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Wilson described the ACE programme as a significant step toward organizing the private sector’s voice for development. By equipping executives and managers with essential knowledge and tools, the programme aims to stimulate business growth and promote sustainable economic development. He also noted that institutionalizing ACE at UNILAG would provide a platform for developing experts capable of replicating the programme’s success throughout Africa.
Prof. Folashade Ogunshola, Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, remarked that the initiative would benefit Africa by supporting trade growth and investment partnerships. Participants will acquire skills in governance, finance, compliance, communication, digital systems, and anti-corruption through both online and in-person sessions. Ogunshola stated that graduates of the programme would return to their chambers equipped to train others in advocacy, coalition building, and best practices.
Mrs. Toki Mabogunje, Honourary Consul of Tanzania to Lagos and former President of LCCI, hailed ACE as a milestone in professionalising chamber management in Nigeria. Mabogunje explained that the initiative would address governance gaps, weak advocacy, and underdeveloped management systems. The programme’s objectives include strengthening governance, financial sustainability, member engagement, and digital transformation within chambers and associations.
Mabogunje further stated that the professionalisation of talent in chamber and association management is crucial for effective advocacy, service delivery, and sustainability. She added that stronger chambers and associations would empower the private sector to influence pro-business policies, reduce regulatory burdens, and improve infrastructure.