The Nnewi Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NCCIMA) is set to make a significant leadership transition as Dr. (Mrs.) Patricia Uchenna Chukwu becomes the first woman to occupy the presidency of the Chamber.
Chukwu will be formally inaugurated as the 12th President of NCCIMA at an investiture ceremony scheduled for 12 noon on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the Classic Munich Hotel and Resort, Nnewi, Anambra State.
Her emergence marks a new chapter in the history of the Chamber and underscores the growing participation of women in leadership positions within Nigeria’s organised private sector.
The ceremony is expected to bring together government officials, industrialists, entrepreneurs, business executives, traditional rulers, diplomats, development partners and representatives of professional and private-sector organisations from across the country.
Beyond the formal transfer of leadership, the event is expected to provide an avenue for stakeholders to discuss investment opportunities, industrial development and strategies for strengthening businesses in Nnewi and its environs.
Nnewi, renowned for its strong manufacturing and entrepreneurial base, has over the years emerged as an important industrial hub, with businesses operating across manufacturing, automotive, engineering, trading and other sectors.
As part of activities surrounding the investiture, guests are also expected to visit selected manufacturing companies and industries in the city, offering an opportunity to showcase Nnewi’s industrial capacity and its contribution to Nigeria’s economic development.
Chukwu is an entrepreneur and business executive with experience spanning business leadership, enterprise development and public service. She has also been associated with initiatives promoting industrial growth, innovation, youth entrepreneurship and women’s participation in economic activities.
With her assumption of office, attention is expected to focus on how the new administration will deepen collaboration between the Chamber, government agencies and the organised private sector.
Key areas expected to feature prominently under her leadership include support for micro, small and medium enterprises, investment promotion, industrialisation, innovation, women’s economic empowerment and the creation of sustainable business opportunities.
The September 26 ceremony is therefore expected to be more than a change of leadership, as NCCIMA begins a new administration under its first female president, with stakeholders looking towards stronger partnerships and renewed efforts to promote commerce, industry, mines, agriculture and investment in Nnewi and beyond.
