Lagos State is set to host political and business leaders as the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC) celebrates its 65th anniversary and inaugurates its 20th president, Sheriff Balogun, tomorrow, April 12, 2025.

The event will take place at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. The ceremony, themed “The Power of Cooperation: 65 Years of OptimisingNigerian-American Economic Relations,” will reflect on the Chamber’s role in promoting bilateral trade and investment relations between Nigeria and the United States (U.S.).

A statement by the Chairman, Publicity Sub-committee, NACC’s 65th Anniversary Celebration Committee, Victor Ojelabi, said the celebration would also feature the unveiling of the proposed NACC’s multi-storey headquarters building and the induction of 52 new members into the Chamber.

“The Special Guest of Honour is Vice President Kashim Shettima, with the Emir of Zazzau, Dr Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, as the Royal Father of the Day. The occasion will be shared by the President of the Africa Finance Corporation, Samaila Zubairu.

“Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, will serve as the chief host of the day and will also be honoured alongside other notable personalities, including Speaker, House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; among others.”

Senator Barau Jibrin, Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani; Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal; Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno; Dr Jumoke Oduwole, Hannatu Musa Musawa, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, and Dr John Momoh, among others.

“Distinguished individuals and brands will be recognised for their contributions to the Nigerian-American business community. Among the awardees are Americo D’Oliveira Dos Ramos, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, Aare Afe Babalola, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo, Arthur Eze, and Chief Pius Akinyelure.

“The Chamber will also honour, posthumously, the late former United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Walter Carrington; Founder and CEO of African Capital Alliance Limited, the late Richard Kramer; and the 62nd Mayor of Houston, Texas, the late Sylvester Turner.

Also to be recognised are outstanding Nigerian and American firms, alongside former presidents of the Chamber, whose work has advanced economic growth and bilateral trade relations.

The 20th presidential inauguration gala will serve as both a celebration of legacy and a launchpad for a new era of visionary leadership and economic collaboration.