The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has called on the Federal Government to investigate the activities of a purported federal agency currently under public scrutiny, warning that the proliferation of fraudulent entities within government institutions could erode investor confidence and damage Nigeria’s business environment.
The call was made by the President of the ACCI, Emeka Obegolu, during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo, to the Chamber’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday.
Obegolu described the situation as deeply troubling for Nigeria’s investment climate, urging the Federal Government to conduct a thorough investigation, expose those behind the alleged fraudulent operation and take decisive action to safeguard the credibility of public institutions.
According to him, allowing fake or unauthorised agencies to operate under the guise of government undermines public trust, weakens regulatory integrity and creates uncertainty for both local and foreign investors.
ACCI president advocated stronger collaboration between the Ministry of Special Duties and the organised private sector to improve policy coordination, enhance the ease of doing business and stimulate sustainable economic growth.
He noted that the Chamber remains committed to promoting enterprise development through its strategic centres dedicated to policy advocacy, entrepreneurship development, dispute resolution and trade promotion.
Obegolu also appealed for increased government attention to the Idu Industrial Area and the Kwali Industrial Park in the Federal Capital Territory, saying improved infrastructure and investment in the industrial hubs would boost manufacturing, create jobs and expand economic activities.
As part of the visit, the Chamber conferred its prestigious National Policy Fellow (NPF) honour on Jisalo in recognition of his contributions to public service, governance and inter-governmental collaboration.
The ACCI president said the minister’s experience would strengthen the work of the Chamber’s National Policy Advocacy Centre (NPAC) and deepen engagement between policymakers and the organised private sector.
In separate goodwill messages, the Chamber’s First Deputy President, Adesoji Adesugba, and Second Deputy President, Aliyu Idi Hong, highlighted the Chamber’s evolution into one of Africa’s leading business organisations, citing its policy advocacy initiatives, entrepreneurship programmes, modern business infrastructure and plans to establish a Pan-African Business University.
Responding, Jisalo thanked the Chamber for the recognition, describing the National Policy Fellow honour as both a privilege and a renewed responsibility to serve the nation.
The minister commended the ACCI for its sustained role in promoting investment, business development and policy advocacy, assuring the Chamber that his ministry would work with relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, including those responsible for trade, industry and the Federal Capital Territory, to address issues affecting businesses and strengthen collaboration with the organised private sector.
