On November 3, Abuja will host the second edition of the Oxford Global Think Tank (OGTT) Leadership Conference, bringing together influential figures from government, business, technology, finance, and civil society. The conference, themed ‘Leadership for a Prosperous Future,’ aims to examine leadership choices, institutional reforms, technological innovations, and investment opportunities needed to translate Africa’s potential into sustainable economic prosperity. Former President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, will deliver the keynote address.
The conference will feature prominent African leaders, including Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and Abia State Governor, Alex Otti. Sanusi and Founder of ANAP Foundation, Atedo Peterside, will co-chair the conference. Other notable attendees include Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani; Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; and Executive Vice-President of Afreximbank, Dr. Kanayo Awani.
Discussions at the conference will focus on critical challenges confronting the continent, including the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), changing global power dynamics, demographic shifts, and evolving economic realities. The conference will address these challenges under three pillars: resilience, innovation, and dynamism. Participants will explore ways to strengthen African institutions, mobilise capital, improve productivity, and expand economic opportunities.
A special highlight of the conference will be its focus on AI, featuring the launch of an AI report and an AI Virtual Centre, as well as an exhibition showcasing emerging technologies and their potential to transform Africa’s development. The organisers aim to move beyond broad aspirations to identify practical actions and partnerships capable of strengthening institutions, deepening productive capacity, and promoting inclusive economic growth.
The Oxford Global Think Tank, founded by Ms. Arunma Oteh, is hosting the conference. The organisation is an independent, non-governmental, and non-partisan entity that promotes research and dialogue on development and supports public and private sector leaders in exploring policy ideas and strengthening institutions. The conference will take place at the Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., followed by a cocktail reception.
According to the Conference Media Adviser, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, the gathering will provide a platform for leaders to make choices that will shape Africa’s future. The organisers believe that Africa’s future will be shaped by the quality of leadership and the choices its institutions and leaders make today. The conference aims to provide a forum for leaders to explore practical strategies for building a prosperous, resilient, and inclusive African economy.
The conference will bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, technologists, and civil society representatives. The event is expected to facilitate meaningful dialogue and collaboration among participants, ultimately contributing to the development of a more prosperous and resilient African economy. Keynote speaker Adesina, also Executive Chairman of the Global Africa Investment Summit, will share his insights on the continent’s economic prospects and potential for growth.
Key points
- The conference will focus on practical strategies for building a prosperous, resilient, and inclusive African economy.
- The event will feature a special focus on AI, including the launch of an AI report and an AI Virtual Centre.
- The conference aims to identify practical actions and partnerships capable of strengthening institutions, deepening productive capacity, and promoting inclusive economic growth.
