ACCI hosts reception honouring outgoing Bulgarian Ambassador, Yordanov

Daniel Adaji, Abuja

The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) held a special cocktail reception to honour Yanko Yordanov, the outgoing Ambassador of Bulgaria to Nigeria.

The event recognized Ambassador Yordanov’s instrumental role in strengthening economic ties, trade relations, and cultural exchange between Bulgaria and Nigeria.

This was disclosed in a statement on Wednesday by the spokesperson for ACCI, Olayemi John-Mensah.

In his remarks, ACCI President, Chief Emeka Obegolu commended Ambassador Yordanov for his commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation. He highlighted several key initiatives led by the Ambassador, including:

Strengthening Francophonie Relations – Facilitating collaborations between ACCI and the Francophone community, including hosting Francophone Ambassadors and welcoming the Francophonie Regional Director for West Africa

Francophonie Business Hub – Spearheading discussions on establishing a platform to enhance business engagement between Francophone nations and Nigeria

Capacity Building – Sponsoring ACCI members for a two-month French language program, with prospects for expansion

Educational Partnerships – Facilitating academic collaborations between ACCI and Bulgarian universities

Trade and Investment Promotion – Connecting Nigerian businesses with Bulgarian companies in key sectors such as pharmaceuticals and steel manufacturing, including a successful trade webinar

Support for the Abuja International Trade Fair – Advocating for Bulgarian participation and reinforcing bilateral trade opportunities

In recognition of his efforts in promoting trade and cultural exchange, Obegolu, presented Yordanov with an Award of Excellence.

Expressing his appreciation, Yordanov reflected on his tenure and the progress made in Bulgaria-Nigeria relations over the past four years.

“When I arrived in Abuja, I was Bulgaria’s youngest ambassador, and our relationship with Nigeria needed strengthening. Today, I am proud of the progress we have made together. Chief Obegolu, SAN, PhD, you are not just a friend but a brother. Since your assumption of office as ACCI President, our engagement has deepened, and I sincerely appreciate the collaboration and support from the entire ACCI leadership. Though I am departing, Nigeria will always hold a special place in my heart, and I look forward to maintaining strong ties with this great country.”

Dr. Aliyu Idi Hong, 2nd Deputy President of ACCI, described Yordanov as a valuable ally to both ACCI and Nigeria’s business community.

“The Ambassador has been a strong advocate for Nigeria and a firm supporter of the business community. We are confident that wherever he goes, he will continue to champion Nigeria’s interests. The relationship between Nigeria and Bulgaria remains strong, and we will continue to nurture it,” Hong stated.

ACCI’s Director General, Mr. Agabaidu Jideani, emphasized the Ambassador’s role in fostering cultural exchange, pointing out how ACCI staff paid tribute through their attire.

“If you look around, you will see our staff in their cultural attire. This represents the kind of relationship Ambassador Yordanov has cultivated, one of mutual respect and cultural appreciation,” Mr. Jideani noted.

The reception was attended by distinguished members of the ACCI Executive and Council, including Dr. Agada Elachi, SAN, Vice President, External Affairs; Dr. Iliasu Gashibaki, Vice President, Finance; Mr. Olasetemi Bode Thompson, Vice President, Agriculture; Dr. Johnson Anene, Chairman, Abuja Trade Centre, as well as present and former members of the ACCI Executive Council, heads of ACCI Centres, staff, and other esteemed guests.