Dr. Mrs. Chiesonu Iziga-Eruchalu has emerged as a shining symbol of excellence and strategic leadership in a defining moment for Enugu State on the global economic stage, at the prestigious 12th Africa Investment & Trade Forum (AFIC12) in Algiers, Algeria. Going on at Sheraton Hotels Algiers in Algeria, the high-level continental gathering brought together over 2,000 participants, 250 exhibitors, and delegates from more than 43 countries, all united under the theme “Together, We Open Markets.” Organized in collaboration with the African Union, Afreximbank, and the AfCFTA Secretariat, the forum stands as one of Africa’s most influential platforms for economic transformation, trade expansion, and cross-border investment deals.
Amid this powerful convergence of global investors, policymakers, and changemakers, Enugu State found a proud and distinguished voice in Dr. Iziga-Eruchalu, notably the only representative from the South East region and Enugu State among Nigeria’s delegation, a development that has further elevated the state’s profile in continental affairs.
Describing the forum as far more than a ceremonial gathering, Dr. Iziga-Eruchalu emphasized its core value as a deal-making and partnership-building powerhouse where real economic decisions shaping Africa’s future are made, noting that her mission is to connect, collaborate, and unlock opportunities that will directly benefit Enugu State, Nigeria, and the African continent at large. Her presence not only reflects her personal influence but also signals the growing relevance of Enugu in conversations around investment, innovation, and sustainable development.
A major highlight of the forum came from Chinese Ambassador to Algeria, Dong Guangli, who announced a landmark “zero-duty” customs exemption policy for 53 African countries effective from May 2026, a move expected to significantly boost African exports into the Chinese market and deepen economic cooperation. He further disclosed that China-Africa trade has surpassed $700 billion with an annual growth rate of 20 percent, underscoring the strength of long-standing relations built on mutual respect and shared economic ambitions.
Beyond keynote addresses, AFIC12 delivered on its mandate of fostering economic integration through structured business engagements, investment matchmaking, and policy dialogues aimed at accelerating the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, with high-level side meetings led by AfCFTA Secretary-General Wamkele Mene paving the way for future collaborations, including preparations for the Africa Start-up Conference scheduled for December 2026 in Algiers to support youth-led enterprises across the continent. For Enugu State, however, the spotlight remains firmly on Dr. Iziga-Eruchalu, whose journey from Amube in Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area to global relevance continues to inspire.
Educated at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, with further international academic exposure, she has built a formidable career spanning consulting, entrepreneurship, public health, and humanitarian services, currently serving as Managing Director of Glozig Enterprise and TConsult360, as well as founder of the Chieso Life Foundation, through which she drives impactful initiatives like “Every Child Deserves Education.”
Her leadership credentials extend into national and socio-political spheres, including her role as former National Vice President of the Ohanaeze Youth Council and her contributions to policy discussions at the Nigerian Senate, while her recognition as a BBC Igbo-featured voice on national issues further highlights her influence.
Affectionately known by titles such as Agbanchala, Nwaejiejemba, and Anyanwu na-etiri oha, she represents a unique blend of intellect, compassion, and visionary leadership, reinforcing the narrative of Enugu as a state rich in human capital and global relevance.
While Africa’s economic future continues to take shape through platforms like AFIC12, the presence and performance of Dr. Iziga-Eruchalu serve as a strong reminder that Enugu State is not merely participating but actively shaping conversations and opportunities that will define the continent’s next phase of growth, firmly positioning the state as a rising force on the global stage.
_FOUNTAINCARE MEDIA_
