The Czech Republic is taking significant steps to enhance its trade and investment relationships with Nigeria, a move that promises to create more robust economic ties between the two nations. This ambitious initiative was highlighted during a recent gathering in Abuja, where business leaders and diplomats came together to inaugurate the Nigeria–Central Europe Chamber of Commerce.
At a dinner held to celebrate the launch of this new chamber, Tomáš Výprachtický, the Czech Ambassador to Nigeria, passionately expressed his country's desire to foster deeper bilateral collaboration. He emphasized the importance of establishing practical platforms that facilitate dialogue, investment opportunities, and sustainable partnerships.
According to the ambassador, the chamber aims to unite government officials, industry pioneers, and innovators from the creative sector in an informal atmosphere conducive to cooperation. This approach is particularly important as it allows for open communication and the sharing of ideas between various stakeholders.
Highlighting the historical context of their relationship, Mr. Výprachtický noted that the Czech Republic and Nigeria have enjoyed a long-standing political and economic partnership. Czech enterprises and institutions have been actively engaged in Nigeria for many years, laying a strong foundation for future growth.
He also pointed out that there are meaningful people-to-people connections between the two nations, such as Nigerian priests who have recently served in Czech monasteries, illustrating the cultural exchanges that enrich this partnership. Furthermore, he praised Nigeria for its immense natural resources and human capital, noting the country's vast potential in fields like engineering and technology.
Paschal Onyemaechi, the newly-appointed President of the Nigeria–Central Europe Chamber of Commerce, highlighted that the organization was officially registered in August 2025, with a mission to bolster links between Europe and Africa. He elaborated that the chamber operates in at least five countries and is dedicated to bridging European technical expertise with Africa’s rich resources, youthful demographics, and expanding markets.
Mr. Onyemaechi stated that the chamber's primary focus will be on fostering bilateral trade, stimulating investment, and providing timely insights into market trends and new opportunities within both regions. Additionally, he mentioned that the organization would advocate for educational mobility, technology transfer, and closer interaction among business leaders, policymakers, and industrialists.
A notable moment during the event was the induction of prominent individuals into the chamber's leadership roles. Andrew Haruna, who serves as Pro-Chancellor of Bingham University and is recognized as a distinguished linguist, was appointed the head of the advisory council. Other key figures who joined the chamber's committee include Rislan Kanya, Jamilu Gwamna from the Kano Electricity Distribution Company, notable business leader Dere Awosika, and the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara.
