A high-profile leadership conference is set to take place in Abuja, bringing together prominent figures to discuss Africa's economic future. The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and former President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina, will lead the discussions. The conference, organised by the Oxford Global Think Tank (OGTT), aims to examine challenges confronting the continent and identify pathways to sustainable growth and prosperity.
The conference will focus on key areas such as leadership, institutional reforms, investment, technological innovation, and the role of artificial intelligence in driving economic development across Africa. Dr Akinwumi Adesina will deliver the keynote address, while Sanusi and Atedo Peterside will serve as co-chairs. The event is scheduled for November 3, 2026, at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, and has attracted a diverse range of participants, including political leaders, business executives, policymakers, and technology experts.
A number of high-profile individuals are expected to attend the conference, including Abia State Governor, Alex Otti; Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani; and Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim. Other notable attendees include Executive Vice-President of Afreximbank, Dr Kanayo Awani; Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Dr Emomotimi Agama; and Chief Executive Officer of Flutterwave, Gbenga Agboola.
The discussions will explore how effective leadership, strong institutions, access to capital, and technological advancement can improve productivity, strengthen economic resilience, and promote inclusive growth. The role of artificial intelligence will feature prominently, with the organisers planning to unveil a report on the technology, establish an AI Virtual Centre, and host an exhibition showcasing related innovations.
The Oxford Global Think Tank (OGTT), founded by Ms Arunma Oteh, is an independent, non-governmental, and non-partisan platform focused on development research and dialogue. The conference's Media Adviser, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, stated that the gathering would provide an opportunity for African leaders and experts to exchange ideas on the continent's development priorities and prospects.
The conference theme, "Leadership for a Prosperous Future," reflects the organisers' focus on finding practical solutions to Africa's economic challenges. With a diverse range of participants and a comprehensive agenda, the event is expected to generate valuable insights and recommendations for Africa's economic development.
Ultimately, the conference aims to contribute to Africa's sustainable growth and prosperity by promoting effective leadership, strong institutions, and technological innovation. The outcomes of the event are expected to have a positive impact on the continent's economic future, and the organisers are optimistic about the potential for meaningful progress.
Key points
- The conference will focus on leadership, institutional reforms, investment, technological innovation, and the role of artificial intelligence in driving economic development across Africa.
- Dr Akinwumi Adesina will deliver the keynote address, while Sanusi and Atedo Peterside will serve as co-chairs.
- The event is scheduled for November 3, 2026, at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.
