The Asaba Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ASACCIMA) has continued to consolidate its position as a leading voice for enterprise development in Delta State, recording notable milestones in 2025 under the leadership of its President, Hon. Obi Chief Chinwe Monu-Oduah Esq. Through strategic advocacy, policy engagement and business enlightenment programmes, the Chamber has demonstrated a renewed commitment to empowering small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) and strengthening the state’s economic base.
One of the major highlights of the year was the successful unveiling of the Power Act, a programme designed to educate entrepreneurs on the opportunities embedded in Delta State’s electricity laws. Hosted by Obi Chief Monu-Oduah and themed “The Benefits of the New Electricity Act to Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneurs (SMEs) in Delta State,” the event provided critical insights into how the Act can transform the operating environment for businesses.
Held on November 6, 2025, at the ASACCIMA Secretariat, the unveiling attracted key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, as well as players in the energy industry. Experts broke down the provisions of the Act, explaining how decentralised power generation and distribution could translate into more affordable, reliable and sustainable electricity for businesses. For many SMEs grappling with high energy costs, the initiative offered hope of improved productivity, reduced overheads and long-term growth. The event also served as a platform for networking, partnership building and showcasing emerging energy solutions, reinforcing ASACCIMA’s role as a bridge between policy and enterprise.
In furtherance of its SME-centred agenda, ASACCIMA also organised a Tax Law Sensitisation Programme aimed at preparing business owners for the new tax regime scheduled to take effect in January 2026. The one-day programme, held on November 21, 2025, carried the theme “Understanding the Tax Law as it Affects Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneurs in Delta State.” Artisans, startups, traders and shop owners were brought together to gain clarity on the law, its benefits and compliance requirements.
Delivering the opening address, Obi Chief Monu-Oduah stressed the importance of knowledge in navigating regulatory changes, noting that informed businesses are better positioned to grow sustainably. Resource persons took participants through the implications of the new tax framework, highlighting benefits such as clearer business categorisation, improved compliance systems and reduced penalties. Interactive sessions allowed participants to ask questions and address specific concerns, a gesture many attendees described as timely and impactful.
ASACCIMA’s growing relevance also received national recognition with a working visit by the President of the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Engr. Jali Ibrahim, mni. During his visit to the ASACCIMA Secretariat in Asaba, Engr. Ibrahim commended the Chamber’s rapid progress, describing it as a model worthy of emulation by other state and city chambers.
He pledged NACCIMA’s support for ASACCIMA, particularly in assisting micro, small and medium enterprises to access loans at single-digit interest rates. According to him, ASACCIMA stands to benefit significantly from NACCIMA’s advocacy initiatives, access to markets and participation in over 40 specialised committees designed to foster idea-sharing and networking. He also spoke on plans to link chambers to the Nigerian Export Promotion Council to support the branding and export of locally manufactured goods, urging members to prioritise quality and certification.
Responding, Obi Chief Monu-Oduah welcomed the visit, describing it as encouraging and inspiring. She highlighted challenges faced by MSMEs in accessing credit and called for stronger intervention from relevant institutions. Emphasising the importance of packaging and standards, she appealed for support in helping members attain SON and NAFDAC certifications.
Through visionary leadership, purposeful engagement and consistent advocacy, Obi Chief Monu-Oduah has steered ASACCIMA onto a path of growth, relevance and impact, positioning the Chamber as a key driver of enterprise development and economic progress in Delta State.
