Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has announced a $150 million offshore expansion loan facility aimed at helping Nigerian businesses access affordable financing for international growth, marking a significant step toward strengthening the country’s private sector and boosting exports.
The initiative, launched in partnership with ODDO BHF SE, is designed to provide Nigerian companies with long-term, low-interest funding to support business expansion beyond the country’s borders.
According to NACCIMA, the financing programme seeks to address one of the biggest obstacles facing businesses in Nigeria—limited access to affordable capital. With commercial lending rates remaining high in the domestic market, many firms have struggled to secure financing needed for expansion, modernization, export development, and international partnerships.
Affordable Capital for Growth
Speaking on the initiative, NACCIMA explained that the offshore credit facility will enable eligible businesses to obtain financing under more favourable conditions than are typically available through local commercial banks.
The chamber noted that the facility targets companies with viable expansion plans, particularly businesses seeking to establish regional or international operations, increase production capacity, invest in modern equipment, or strengthen export activities.
Officials described the partnership as part of broader efforts to improve the competitiveness of Nigerian enterprises and position them for greater participation in global markets.
The chamber added that improving access to affordable financing remains essential for economic diversification, industrial development, and increased non-oil exports.
Partnership with International Financial Institution
NACCIMA said the programme is being implemented in collaboration with Germany-based investment banking group ODDO BHF SE.
The partnership is expected to connect Nigerian businesses with international financial resources while encouraging greater foreign investment and cross-border commercial relationships.
Industry observers believe such collaborations could help reduce the financing gap confronting many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which often face difficulties obtaining long-term capital despite their contribution to employment and economic growth.
Who Can Apply?
According to NACCIMA, eligible businesses across various sectors of the Nigerian economy can apply for the facility, provided they meet the programme’s financial and operational requirements.
Potential beneficiaries are expected to demonstrate sound corporate governance, sustainable business models, and credible expansion strategies.
The facility is expected to benefit businesses operating in sectors including:
- Manufacturing
- Agriculture and agro-processing
- Mining
- Technology
- Healthcare
- Renewable energy
- Logistics
- Export-oriented industries
- Industrial production
NACCIMA encouraged interested companies to submit applications through the association’s designated channels for assessment and due diligence.
Supporting Nigeria’s Export Agenda
Experts say increasing access to affordable international financing could help Nigerian businesses improve productivity and expand into African and global markets.
The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s efforts to leverage opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seeks to boost intra-African trade by reducing barriers among member countries.
With improved financing, companies could increase exports, establish regional distribution networks, and compete more effectively with firms from other emerging economies.
Business analysts also note that lower borrowing costs may encourage investment in technology, innovation, and infrastructure—key factors for enhancing productivity.
Relief from High Domestic Interest Rates
Nigeria’s business community has repeatedly expressed concerns over high lending rates, rising production costs, exchange-rate volatility, and inflation.
Many manufacturers and SMEs argue that commercial loans carrying double-digit interest rates have constrained investment and slowed business expansion.
By offering lower-cost offshore financing, the NACCIMA initiative could provide companies with greater financial flexibility while supporting job creation and industrial growth.
Economists believe access to affordable capital remains one of the most effective ways to stimulate private-sector investment and improve economic competitiveness.
Boosting Investor Confidence
Beyond providing financing, the partnership is expected to strengthen investor confidence in Nigerian businesses by demonstrating increased collaboration between domestic business organisations and international financial institutions.
Such partnerships may also encourage technology transfer, improve corporate governance standards, and open new opportunities for Nigerian firms seeking foreign partnerships.
Analysts say sustained access to international finance could support long-term economic resilience while helping businesses withstand domestic financial pressures.
NACCIMA Reaffirms Commitment to Private Sector Development
NACCIMA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigerian businesses through advocacy, investment promotion, trade facilitation, and strategic partnerships.
The chamber noted that strengthening private enterprises remains central to achieving sustainable economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and improving Nigeria’s global competitiveness.
It urged businesses with expansion ambitions to take advantage of the financing opportunity while continuing to adopt sound governance practices and innovative business strategies.
If successfully implemented, the $150 million facility could become one of the significant private-sector financing initiatives available to Nigerian companies seeking regional and international expansion.
Sources
- NACCIMA
- ODDO BHF SE
- BusinessDay Nigeria
- The Guardian Nigeria
- Punch Newspapers
