The Czech Republic has signalled renewed interest in expanding economic cooperation with Nigeria, with a focus on trade, investment, and technology exchange.
The Czech Ambassador to Nigeria, Tomáš Výprachtický, made this known in Abuja on Sunday while speaking at a dinner event organised to unveil the Nigeria–Central Europe Chamber of Commerce (NCECC).
Czech Ambassador Highlights Longstanding Nigeria–Czech Relations
According to the ambassador, Czech companies and institutions have engaged with Nigeria for many years. As a result, both countries now share a long-standing political and economic relationship.
Beyond trade, Výprachtický pointed to people-to-people ties as evidence of growing cooperation. For instance, Nigerian priests have served in Czech monasteries for several years.
He described Nigeria as a country rich in natural and human resources. In addition, he highlighted its strong potential in engineering and technology.
Therefore, he said his goal as ambassador is to strengthen cooperation in areas that remain underdeveloped.
New Chamber to Promote Trade and Strategic Partnerships
Výprachtický explained that the newly launched chamber would provide a platform for government officials, business leaders, and creative industry players to interact in a friendly setting.
According to him, such engagement will encourage dialogue and help cultivate strategic partnerships between Nigeria and Central Europe.
The event was organised by the NCECC in partnership with the Regional Trade Institute (RTI) and the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Nigeria.
NCECC Outlines Vision for Europe–Africa Cooperation
Also speaking at the event, President of the NCECC, Paschal Onyemaechi, said the organisation was formally registered in August 2025.
He explained that the chamber currently operates in at least five countries, with a mandate to strengthen economic relations between Central Europe and Africa.
According to Onyemaechi, Europe contributes technology, technical expertise, and strong business ethics. Africa, on the other hand, offers natural resources, a youthful population, and a vibrant market.
Focus on Investment, Education, and Technology Transfer
Onyemaechi said the chamber will promote bilateral trade, attract investment, and provide up-to-date market information.
In addition, he said the organisation will support educational mobility and facilitate technology transfer across regions.
“We will also create platforms where business leaders, industrialists, and policymakers can meet and form lasting partnerships,” he said.
Looking ahead, Onyemaechi disclosed plans to roll out development-focused initiatives, including the New Partnership for Development of Africa (NEPDA) project, to achieve the chamber’s objectives.
