Organised Private Sector of Nigeria: An Overview
Dele Oye
The Organised Private Sector (OPS) of Nigeria has a rich and complex history that reflects the broader socio-economic evolution of the country. The roots of the OPS can be traced back to the early 20th century when Nigeria began to experience industrialization, primarily driven by colonial enterprises. Post-independence, there was a concerted effort to establish a robust private sector that could contribute significantly to the nation’s economic development. Over the decades, various trade associations, chambers of commerce, and business groups emerged, advocating for the interests of private enterprises and promoting a conducive environment for business growth.
In response to the challenges faced by the private sector, including regulatory barriers, infrastructural deficits, and economic instability, the OPS was formalized to provide a unified voice for businesses. Key organizations within the OPSN have played pivotal roles in representing and advocating for the interests of the business community.
Membership
The Organised Private Sector of Nigeria has the following member organisations: Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA),
Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA), Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists (NASSI), Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME). The Presidents of each of the five organizations make up the Executive Committee and Board of Trustees. The Current Chairman of the OPSN is NACCIMA National President Hon. Dele Kelvin Oye. The Director-General/Executive Secretaries constitute the Committee of Director-Generals/Executive Secretaries. The current head of the Secretariat of the OPSN is the Director-General of NACCIMA, Mr Sola Obadimu.
NACCIMA History
The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) was established in 1960 to unify various chambers of commerce and trade associations across Nigeria. With current membership of over Hundred Chambers of Commerce in Nigeria since Its formation, NACCIMA has been playing a pivotal role in providing a consolidated voice for the private sector, advocating for favourable policies and enhancing collaboration among businesses.
Objectives
NACCIMA’s primary objectives include: 1. Advocacy: Representing member interests at local, state, and national levels to promote fair trade practices. 2. Networking: Facilitating connections among members to foster partnerships and business development. 3.Capacity Building: Offering training programs and workshops to enhance member skills. 4. Trade Promotion: Organizing trade fairs and exhibitions to showcase local products and services. 5. Information Dissemination: Providing critical market and policy information relevant to members. 6. Economic Development: Contributing to national development through entrepreneurship and innovation promotion.
Activities
NACCIMA engages in a variety of activities, including:
-Policy Advocacy: Interacting with government to influence business-friendly policies.
-Trade Fairs and Exhibitions: Hosting events to promote Nigerian businesses.
Issuing of Certificates of Origin for goods going out of Nigeria.
-Capacity Building Programs: Offering training and workshops for skill enhancement.
– Research and Information Sharing: Conducting research on industry trends and disseminating findings.
-Networking Events: Providing platforms for members to connect and collaborate.
-International Trade Promotion: Partnering with global organizations to expand market access.
Through its initiatives, NACCIMA plays a crucial role in supporting the growth of Nigeria’s private sector towards encouraging a favourable business environment.
Hon. Dele Kelvin Oye National President and Chairman of OPSN
Mr Segun Obadimu Director General and Director-General OPSN
NECA is the umbrella organisation of Employers in the organised private sector of Nigeria. It was formed in 1957 to provide the forum for the Government to consult with Private Sector Employers on Socio-Economic and Labour policy issues. The organisation provides a platform for Private Sector Employers to Interact with the Government, Labour, Communities and other relevant institutions in and outside Nigeria for the purpose of promoting harmonious business environment that will engender productivity and prosperity for the benefit of all. NECA is not a Trade Union but a dynamic and highly respected professional body registered under the Company and Allied Matters Act 1990.
President Dr Ifeanyi Okoye, Mni, OFR
Director-General Mr Adewale Smatt-Oyerinde
MAN
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) was established in May 1971 as a company limited by guarantee. The establishment of the Association was motivated by the desire to have a focal point of communication and consultation between Industry on the one hand, and the Government and the general public on the other. The Association provides a platform for the private sector to formulate and articulate policy suggestions that would be complementary to governments effort at policy formulation.
Otunba Francis Meshioye
Director-General – Segun Ajayi-kadir,Mni
NASSI
The Nigerian Association of Small Scale Industrialists was founded in 1978 and registered under the land perpetual succession act as a non-profit organisation. It has a national secretariat, four zonal offices and branches in all the states of the federation and Abuja. The Association admits those in manufacturing, processing, mining and service industries and whose capital investment fall within the definition of small scale industry as may be reviewed from time to time by the government.
President – Dr Solomon Vongfa
Director-General – Ifeanyi Oputa
Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises NASME was registered in 1996 as a Business Membership Organisation (BMO) Not for Profit Organisation. NASME was jointly conceived by promoters of MSMEs in the private sector and agencies of the federal government of Nigeria including the Bank of Industry to serve as the apex organisation that will coordinate MSME activities and interact with local and foreign organisation whose services are vital to the development of MSMEs.
President – Dr. Abdulrashid Yerima
Executive Secretary
Eke U. Ubiji
The OPS comprises a diverse array of businesses, including micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), as well as large corporations spanning various sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, services, telecommunications, and technology. Membership is generally open to businesses operating in Nigeria, whether local or foreign, that seek to contribute to the economic growth and development of the country. Through collaboration with various business leaders, trade associations, and government agencies, the OPS aims to create an environment that fosters entrepreneurship, innovation, and competitiveness.
Objectives
The primary objectives of the Organized Private Sector of Nigeria include: 1. Advocacy: To represent the interests of the private sector in discussions with government bodies, ensuring that policies and regulations support business growth and sustainability. 2. Networking: To create platforms for networking and collaboration among businesses, fostering partnerships that enhance productivity and innovation. 3. Capacity Building: To provide training and resources that empower businesses to improve their operational effectiveness and competitiveness. 4.Economic Development: To contribute to the overall economic development of Nigeria by promoting entrepreneurial initiatives, job creation, and sustainable practices. 5. Support for Members: To offer guidance and support to member organizations on various issues, including compliance, human resources, and market access.
Current Leadership
As of January 31, 2025, Honorable Dele Kelvin Oye has assumed the role of Chairman of the Organized Private Sector of Nigeria. With a reputation for strong leadership and a deep understanding of the challenges facing the private sector, Hon. Oye is poised to guide the OPS towards achieving its objectives, enhancing its advocacy efforts, and promoting a thriving business environment in Nigeria. His leadership is anticipated to bring innovative solutions to the challenges faced by the OPS and foster collaborations that drive growth and development in the private sector.
In conclusion, the Organized Private Sector of Nigeria serves as a vital component of the nation’s economic framework, advocating for policies that facilitate business success and contribute to national development. Under the leadership of Hon. Dele Kelvin Oye, the OPS is expected to strengthen its role as a key stakeholder in Nigeria’s economic landscape.
.Oye is the chairman of the Organised Private Sector and President of the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA)
