France Nigeria Business Council Appoints Aig-Imoukhuede As President

Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, has been appointed as the President of the France Nigeria Business Council (FNBC) by the President of the French Republic, President Emmanuel Macron.

His appointment was announced at the Choose France Summit 2024, held on Monday, May 13, 2024. Aig-Imoukhuede’s appointment follows the passing of Herbert Wigwe, the council’s former president, in February 2024.

Commenting on the appointment, Abdul Samad Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group and pioneer president of the France Nigeria Business Council, has congratulated Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede on his appointment.

Aig-Imoukhuede, who is the non-executive chairman of the Board of Access Holdings, brings to the role, years of experience in the Nigerian banking sector and the African financial landscape and will seek to further strengthen business relations between Nigeria and France during his tenure.

In his statement, Rabiu, who was the first President of the Council, highlighted the important role the council plays in fostering strong business relations between Nigeria and France. According to Rabiu, “the council has full confidence in Aigboje’s ability to continue the mission of the France Nigeria Business Council and will continue to support the attainment of its goals with support from the Council’s Secretariat led by Jean Haas, in promoting valuable business partnerships and economic exchanges between Nigeria and France.”

The France Nigeria Business Council (FNBC) stands as a pivotal coalition of Nigerian private sector business leaders, committed to enhancing bilateral relations between Nigeria and France.

Its core objectives revolve around the facilitation of trade, investments, infrastructural development, job creation, and cultural integration between the two nations.

Since its establishment in June 2021 under the auspices of President Emmanuel Macron, the FNBC has diligently utilised its member network to champion investments across key business sectors, fostering cultural understanding and driving economic growth between Nigeria and France.

Notably, it has catalysed Nigerian businesses’ ventures into investment opportunities within France.

Comprising 13 distinguished members, the council boasts prominent figures including Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede (President), Abdul Samad Rabiu, Gilbert Chagoury, Mike Adenuga, Aliko Dangote, Jim Ovia, Tony Elumelu, and John Coumantaros. Additionally, Kola Karim, Leo Stan Ekeh, Daisy Danjuma, Gbenga Agboola, and Jean Haas serve as integral members, with Jean Haas holding the position of Secretary.

The Choose France Summit is an annual gathering that convenes business magnates, investors, and governmental dignitaries to explore investment prospects within France.

The highlight of the Summit was the Presidential Dinner, characterised by high-level engagements and mutual commitments between participating parties.