Stanbic IBTC Hosts Inaugural Nigeria Business Summit
Stanbic IBTC, a prominent financial services provider in Nigeria, successfully held the 2026 edition of the Nigeria Business Summit at the Landmark Event Centre on Victoria Island in Lagos starting from April 1.
This two-day summit united industry leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders from various sectors to discuss sustainable business practices, stimulate economic growth, and unlock opportunities for global trade.
Centered around the theme ‘Nigeria Means Business: Powering Sectors, Growing Sustainable SMEs & Unlocking Global Trade,’ the summit tackled significant issues across vital sectors, such as agribusiness, renewable energy, trade, Africa-China banking, as well as ICT and telecommunications.
Additional sessions delved into topics such as family business sustainability, artificial intelligence, employee value banking, insurance, pension, and wealth management.
Keynote
The event featured a keynote address from the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, who underscored the pressing necessity for Nigeria to reestablish itself as a foremost export-driven economy to achieve sustained growth.
“Our true potential lies in becoming a leading export economy,” stated Edun.
“Enhanced participation in regional and global trade will be key to diversifying foreign exchange earnings and driving inclusive growth.”
He pointed out that while Nigeria’s GDP growth has risen to approximately 4%, it remains insufficient to significantly alleviate poverty.
Edun noted that the country’s economic strategy is currently transitioning from stabilization to accelerated growth, with trade expansion being a focal point.
He highlighted ongoing reforms – including improved foreign reserves, increasing non-oil revenues, and renewed investor confidence – as signs of a more resilient economy.
Nonetheless, he emphasized that enhancing trade competitiveness will demand continuous investment in infrastructure, logistics, and policy alignment.
He also stressed the significance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which comprise over 90% of businesses, asserting that inclusive growth relies on stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Highlights
Participants engaged in an enriching array of activities, including expert presentations, panel discussions, and premium networking opportunities.
Summit highlights featured the Africa Trade Barometer presentation, client testimonial showcases, and enlightening discussions concerning the state of the African economy and intra-African trade prospects.
Breakout sessions focusing on agribusiness, ICT, healthcare, Africa-China banking and trade, along with renewable energy offered attendees deeper, actionable insights into crucial sectors driving Nigeria’s economic future.
Chuma Nwokocha, the chief executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, represented by chief finance and value management officer Kunle Adedeji, emphasized the significance of teamwork and innovation in fostering sustainable growth.
“This summit has reinforced the necessity of creating platforms for ideas to thrive and businesses to grow sustainably. By collaborating, we can unlock new opportunities and drive economic progress across Nigeria and the African continent,” he stated.
The summit also showcased practical strategies for weaving sustainability into business operations, encouraging organizations to adopt eco-friendly practices while retaining profitability and competitiveness.
Remy Osuagwu, executive director of Business & Commercial Banking, expressed contentment regarding the level of participant interest, which is crucial for a successful summit.
“From discussions on energy and healthcare to in-depth explorations of trade, Africa-China relations, and agribusiness, Day 1 has presented insights that are both enlightening and pragmatic. I believe we all leave with a stronger grasp of the opportunities emerging in our industries,” Osuagwu remarked.
He acknowledged the participants’ engagement, questions, contributions, and eagerness to share experiences, describing this as the true strength of the Nigeria Business Summit and a solid foundation for the future.
Stanbic IBTC Bank CEO Wole Adeniyi, represented by deputy CEO Bunmi Dayo-Olagunju, commenced Day 2 of the summit by emphasizing the significance of the summit’s SME Day.
“Today, we build on the momentum of Day 1 with discussions that are equally important for the future – covering everything from the dynamics of family businesses to the growing influence of artificial intelligence; the evolution of insurance, and the emerging landscape of electric vehicle financing,” Dayo-Olagunju explained.
She added: “Our goal for Day 2 is clear: to explore what’s next. To comprehend how these developments will influence our businesses and how we can position ourselves to stay ahead.”
Stanbic IBTC’s inaugural Nigeria Business Summit exemplifies the organization’s dedication to empowering businesses, reinforcing key sectors, and establishing Nigeria as a formidable player in the global economy.
Brought to you by Standard Bank Group.
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