By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KACCIMA) has withdrawn its membership from the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), citing unresolved concerns over constitutional compliance.
In a statement signed by KACCIMA President,Ambassador Usman Hassan Darma, the Chamber accused NACCIMA of violating procedural governance and institutional integrity within the national body.
KACCIMA’s action came shortly after the conclusion of its general meeting in Port Harcourt where NACCIMA purportedly approved the ratification of Dala Council of Chamber in Kano.
Although the Kano Chamber had faulted the ratification for lacking constitutional provisions, Darma said efforts to resolve the internal engagement and correspondence with NACCIMA were not successful, hence the decision to exit the Association.
According to the statement, KACCIMA had submitted an initial petition to NACCIMA on May 26, 2026, raising concerns over governance issues, and subsequently received a response from the Director-General of the national body on June 2, 2026
However, the Kano chamber said further reviews indicated that fundamental principles of constitutional governance and institutional procedures had not been adequately upheld.
“KACCIMA believes that a strong private sector depends on strict adherence to constitutional rules, mutual respect and transparent leadership,” the statement said.
The chamber identified several factors that informed its decision to sever ties with NACCIMA, including concerns over the admission process of the proposed Dala Chamber of Commerce, which it alleged did not fully comply with the requirements stipulated under Article 5 of NACCIMA’s Memorandum and Articles of Association.
KACCIMA further argued that the registration process bypassed critical consultations and engagement with the chamber, which it described as the primary recognised representative of the Kano business community.
The statement also raised concerns over what it termed as conflicts of interest arising from the involvement of individuals occupying leadership positions in both organisations, warning that such overlaps could compromise fiduciary responsibilities owed to KACCIMA.
According to the chamber, bypassing established verification and administrative procedures could create an unsustainable precedent capable of weakening the operational structure of chambers across the country.
It added that procedural lapses risk fragmenting the business community and undermining the collective voice of Nigeria’s private sector at a time when unity and collaboration are essential.
Despite the withdrawal, KACCIMA reiterated its support for the growth and expansion of the chamber movement in Nigeria, stressing that such expansion must be pursued through lawful, transparent and inclusive processes that protect the interests of all stakeholders.
The chamber assured members and the wider business community that it would continue to operate independently and remain committed to supporting businesses, promoting economic innovation and advancing sustainable commercial development in Kano State and Nigeria.