The Rome Business Forum on Friday rounded off its second and final day with a series of technical sessions led by the DT2 Consulting Italy team, headed by Dr. Mario Viglianese. The sessions focused on strengthening bilateral investment opportunities and advancing business cooperation between Nigeria and Italy.
The Nigerian Embassy in Rome was represented by Mr. Pelumi Temitope and Mrs. Maria Tony-Bisong from the Embassy’s Trade and Economic Desk, who participated actively in the forum’s closing engagements.
However, the event ended on a sober note as Ambassador Augustine Chigbolu, in his closing remarks, expressed deep disappointment over the refusal of the Italian Embassy to grant visas to Nigerian government officials and registered participants.
The Ambassador described the situation as “unfortunate,” stressing that key Nigerian delegates—including a Minister and his team, a Senator and his team, as well as several prominent business leaders who registered for the forum—were all denied entry.
“I can categorically say that nobody who registered for this event and applied for a visa was able to attend,” Ambassador Chigbolu lamented. “We will take the issue up at the appropriate quarters.”
He emphasized that the absence of these high-level participants not only undermined the objectives of the forum but also raised serious concerns about Italy’s commitment to fostering business and diplomatic cooperation with Nigeria.
Despite the setback, the forum drew participation from the President of NIDOE Italy Chapter, members of the Nigerian community, Italian business leaders, and the press, who all witnessed the presentations and discussions aimed at deepening economic ties.
Organisers expressed optimism that the outcomes of the technical sessions, coupled with the issues raised by the Nigerian delegation, would shape future engagements and strengthen business relations between both countries.