The organised private sector of Imo State — our history, mission, and values.
Our History
Established as an association limited by guarantee in Owerri, providing a unified voice for private sector operators in the post-civil war South-East economy.
Expanded membership to include agricultural and mining sectors, deepening the chamber's reach across all productive industries in Imo State.
Became affiliated with NACCIMA as Imo State's representative chamber, positioning OCCIMA in national private sector discourse.
Launched the Indo-Nigeria Business Summit, opening new trade corridors and connecting Imo businesses to international markets.
Opened new headquarters at FSP Park, Owerri, a permanent home for the chamber and a hub for Imo State's business community.
OCCIMA was founded in 1970 as an association limited by guarantee under Nigerian law. Its founding purpose was to provide a unified voice for private sector operators in Imo State, connecting businesses to government and to one another at a time when the post-civil war economy of the South-East demanded coordinated private sector leadership.
Through the 1980s and 1990s, the chamber expanded significantly, welcoming businesses from the agricultural and mining sectors and deepening its institutional relationships. Affiliation with the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) in the 1990s positioned OCCIMA as Imo State's official representative in national private sector discourse.
Today, OCCIMA serves over 500 active member businesses across all sectors of the Imo State economy. As the only body authorised to issue Certificates of Origin for exporters in Owerri, the chamber plays a direct and practical role in Imo State's international trade flows.
OCCIMA's mandate extends beyond documentation. Through policy advocacy, trade facilitation, and business development programmes, the chamber works continuously to improve the business environment in Imo State and to ensure that the organised private sector's voice is heard at every level of government.
Our Purpose
To promote and enhance commerce, industry, agriculture, mining and professional business in Imo State and Nigeria, while advocating for a policy environment that enables private sector growth.
To be the most effective chamber of commerce in South-East Nigeria, recognised as the indispensable partner of every serious business operating in Imo State.
What Drives Us
The principles that guide every decision at OCCIMA.
We conduct ourselves with transparency and honesty in all dealings.
We are the fearless voice of Imo State's private sector.
We pursue the highest standards in every service we provide.
We ensure every sector and scale of business has a seat at the table.
We continually modernise our services to meet evolving business needs.
We exist to serve our members and the Imo business community.
Our Network
Get Involved
Over 500 businesses trust OCCIMA to represent their interests and open doors.