Sanusi, Adesina, Otti, Others to Shape Debate on Africa’s Economic Future in Abuja

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and former President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina, are among prominent African leaders and economic experts expected to lead discussions on the continent’s economic future at a leadership conference in Abuja.

The conference, organised by the Oxford Global Think Tank (OGTT), will hold on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, under the theme, “Leadership for a Prosperous Future.”

Adesina, who is also Executive Chairman of the Global Africa Investment Summit, will deliver the keynote address, while Sanusi and founder of ANAP Foundation, Atedo Peterside, will serve as co-chairs.

The gathering is expected to bring together political leaders, business executives, policymakers and technology experts to examine Africa’s development challenges and identify strategies for sustainable economic growth and prosperity.

Other prominent participants expected at the event include Abia State Governor, Alex Otti; Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani; and Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.

Also expected are 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.

Discussions will focus on leadership, institutional reforms, investment, access to capital, technological innovation and the role of artificial intelligence in accelerating economic development across the continent.

The organisers said particular attention would be given to how strong institutions, effective leadership and technological advancement could improve productivity, strengthen economic resilience and promote inclusive growth.

Artificial intelligence will feature prominently at the conference, with plans to unveil a report on the technology, establish an AI Virtual Centre and host an exhibition showcasing innovations in the sector.

The OGTT, founded by Ms Arunma Oteh, is an independent, non-governmental and non-partisan platform dedicated to development research and policy dialogue.

In a statement, the conference’s Media Adviser, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, said the event would provide a platform for African leaders and experts to exchange ideas and develop practical approaches to addressing the continent’s development priorities.

He said the conference would also encourage conversations on the leadership decisions, institutional capacity and investments required to secure a more prosperous future for Africa.