A BULGARIA-NIGERIA PARTNERSHIP FOR A PROSPEROUS FUTURE

This April, the newly established Bulgarian African Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Culture (BACCIC) welcomed its first African delegates – an eminent Nigerian delegation in Sofia, Bulgaria. The delegation included highly respected representatives from the Office of the Nigerian President and the Lagos State Governor’s Office. During the introduction meeting hosted at the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), this landmark event highlighted the extraordinary potential for fostering deeper collaboration between Bulgaria and Nigeria.  Remarkable enthusiasm was demonstrated by Bulgarian businesses toward Nigeria and Africa as a whole. The delegates were warmly welcomed by the President of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. 

This achievement reinforces BACCIC’s mission to foster enduring and impactful business collaborations between Africa and Bulgaria.The interest from the Bulgarian business was immense, the meeting was attended by CEO’s and representatives of ProStream Group, Yafibr, ONDO, AgriVentures, Rodina Haskovo, the Agricultural University of Plovdiv, Visman Investment Group and many others. 

The horizon of opportunities in trade, agriculture, technology, and investment between our regions shines brightly. The BACCIC is committed to driving transformative collaborations that will yield sustainable growth and prosperity for both nations.

The active participation by the distinguished members of the Nigerian delegation, their insightful contributions, unwavering engagement, and commitment to advancing bilateral relations and strategic insights were instrumental in elevating this meeting to unprecedented heights. The delegation was led by Mrs. Kasha Iliya,the CEO of Malbicon Global. Here is what she shared with us: 

A-CHOICES: Impressions of Sofia and the Bulgarian People

KASHA: Sofia is a city that embodies a perfect balance between history and progress. The architecture tells the story of Bulgaria’s rich past, while its business and tech hubs demonstrate the country’s forward-looking mindset. My interactions with Bulgarian business leaders, government officials, and trade partners have reaffirmed their openness to international collaboration, particularly with Africa.

Ambassador Yanko Yordanov has played a pivotal role in re-establishing Bulgaria-Nigeria ties. His proactive efforts have strengthened diplomatic engagement, facilitated trade discussions, and encouraged cultural exchanges. The Bulgarian African Chamber of Commerce (BACCIC) has also been instrumental in fostering economic cooperation, creating platforms for business dialogue, and connecting African entrepreneurs with Bulgarian investors. This strong foundation sets the stage for greater collaboration between our nations.

A-CHOICES: Inspiration Behind the Trade Delegation’s Visit

KASHA:This delegation was driven by a shared vision: to turn the renewed diplomatic momentum between Nigeria and Bulgaria into concrete business opportunities. Thanks to the work of Ambassador Yordanov, the trade volume between our nations has increased by 70%, and there is strong interest in deepening investment ties.

Our visit sought to strengthen partnerships in technology, infrastructure, agriculture, and education—key areas where Bulgaria has global expertise and where Nigeria is actively seeking development. With support from BACCIC, we engaged directly with Bulgarian business leaders and policymakers to explore opportunities for sustainable trade and long-term investment.

A-CHOICES: Importance of Nigeria-Bulgaria Relations

KASHA:Nigeria and Bulgaria have a long-standing history, but recent efforts have redefined this relationship for the modern era. Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, offers a vast market, while Bulgaria’s strategic location in the EU and its specialized industries make it an ideal trade and investment partner.

The revival of Nigeria-Bulgaria Business Forums, facilitated by BACCIC and the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has played a crucial role in accelerating business engagement. Additionally, Ambassador Yordanov’s leadership led to the first high-level visit by a Nigerian Foreign Minister to Bulgaria in over four decades, resulting in the signing of key cooperation agreements. These milestones signal a new chapter of bilateral collaboration focused on economic growth, knowledge transfer, and cultural exchange.

A-CHOICES: Aligning Bulgarian Expertise with Nigeria’s Development Goals

KASHA:Nigeria’s economic transformation is anchored on technology, infrastructure, and agricultural modernization—three areas where Bulgaria has proven expertise.

• Technology & Digital Innovation: Bulgaria’s advanced IT and cybersecurity sectors align with Nigeria’s ambitions in fintech, e-governance, and digital transformation. Companies from both countries can explore collaborations in smart city solutions, cybersecurity, and AI-driven business models.
• Infrastructure & Industrial Growth: Bulgaria’s strength in engineering, urban planning, and construction can contribute to Nigeria’s ambitious infrastructure projects, including smart cities and transportation networks.
• Agriculture & Food Processing: With Nigeria’s drive for food security and export-driven agribusiness, Bulgaria’s mechanized farming techniques, agritech innovations, and food processing expertise offer practical solutions. The recent Nigeria-Bulgaria Agribusiness Summit, organized by BACCIC, showcased strong opportunities in this sector.

By fostering strategic partnerships and knowledge-sharing programs, we can accelerate Nigeria’s industrialization and technological advancement while providing Bulgarian companies access to one of Africa’s most dynamic markets.

A-CHOICES: Role of Economic Diplomacy in Building Partnerships

KASHA:As a professional with experience in trade, investment, and economic diplomacy, I understand that sustainable international partnerships require more than just trade agreements, they demand trust, strategic alignment, and shared economic benefits.

Ambassador Yordanov’s approach to diplomacy has been exemplary. His efforts to revive long-dormant bilateral ties have not only reopened diplomatic channels but have also restored investor confidence and encouraged cross-sector collaboration. Similarly, BACCIC has played a crucial role in bridging the gap between African entrepreneurs and Bulgarian businesses, fostering direct engagement that leads to real economic impact.

Economic diplomacy, when done right, goes beyond business—it creates long-term networks, empowers entrepreneurs, and strengthens the foundation for sustainable economic growth.

A-CHOICES: Advice for Young African Entrepreneurs

KASHA:For young African entrepreneurs looking to enter the global market, my key advice is:

• Think Beyond Borders: The world is more interconnected than ever, and opportunities exist far beyond your home country. Study international markets, explore trade fairs, and build cross-border networks.
• Leverage Diplomatic and Business Networks: Organizations like BACCIC, the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, and bilateral trade chambers provide invaluable resources for African businesses looking to scale internationally.
• Adopt Technology and Innovation: Whether in fintech, agritech, or e-commerce, technology is a game-changer in global trade. Bulgarian companies are at the forefront of digital transformation, making them ideal partners for African entrepreneurs.
• Be Resilient and Adaptable: Success in global business requires patience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from diverse markets.

By embracing these principles, young entrepreneurs can unlock global opportunities and position themselves as key players in international trade and investment.

A-CHOICES: Key Takeaways from This Visit and the Future of Nigeria-Bulgaria Relations

KASHA:This visit reinforced a critical message: Nigeria and Bulgaria are entering a new era of economic cooperation. With the foundation laid by Ambassador Yordanov and the support of BACCIC, we now have an opportunity to expand trade, foster innovation, and create sustainable investment partnerships.

Key next steps include: Strengthening Business Partnerships – Encouraging joint ventures between Nigerian and Bulgarian enterprises.

Expanding Trade and Investment Agreements – Streamlining policies that make cross-border business easier.

Enhancing Educational and Cultural Exchange – Building on the momentum of renewed diplomatic ties to facilitate more Nigerian students studying in Bulgaria and more cultural engagements.

Advancing Technological and Industrial Collaboration – Partnering with Bulgarian firms in IT, smart infrastructure, and agritech solutions to drive Nigeria’s economic transformation.

The Bulgarian African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BACCIC) will continue to serve as a vital bridge, ensuring seamless communication, business matchmaking, and strategic investments.

This visit is just the beginning of what I believe will be a long and fruitful partnership between our nations. Through continued engagement, Nigeria and Bulgaria can jointly shape a future of shared prosperity.