Kwara Businessman Set to Become First NACCIMA President from State

A new chapter is set to be written in Kwara State’s business history as Engr. Jani Ibrahim, Chairman and Technical Adviser of LUBCON, is poised to become the first businessman from the state to lead the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) since its establishment in 1960.

This development was disclosed on Thursday by the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), Engr. Abu Salami, during a press briefing at the ongoing 65th Annual General Meeting/Conference of NACCIMA, held at the Kwara Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KCCIMA) Secretariat in Ilorin.

In his remarks, Engr. Salami praised Engr. Jani’s dedication and business acumen, describing his anticipated leadership as a “monumental achievement” for Kwara State. He emphasized that Ibrahim’s appointment would not only elevate the state’s profile nationally but also attract significant investment opportunities.

"Having Engr. Jani Ibrahim as NACCIMA President is a blessing to Kwara State," Salami stated. "His leadership will serve as a catalyst to transform Kwara from a civil service-dependent economy into an investment-driven economic powerhouse."

Engr. Salami also used the occasion to voice concerns over the economic environment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, particularly regarding current tax policies. He urged the Federal Government to review its taxation framework to support business growth and stability.

“The present tax structure is a heavy burden on businesses,” Salami lamented. “We call on the government to strike a balance—businesses need breathing space to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.”

Despite his criticism, Salami appealed to citizens to fulfill their civic responsibilities by paying taxes promptly, stressing the critical role revenue plays in driving public infrastructure and development.

Across the country, many business owners have echoed similar concerns, citing the rising cost of doing business and what they term “crippling” taxation. Stakeholders in the private sector continue to urge the federal government to implement pro-business reforms that would ensure a more stable and predictable economic environment.

Engr. Jani Ibrahim's expected elevation to the NACCIMA presidency has been widely welcomed by the business community, with many expressing optimism that his leadership will bring a new era of advocacy, reform, and inclusive economic growth for Nigeria.