The West African Leadership and Empowerment Centre (WALEC) is set to bring together emerging leaders, policymakers, business leaders, professionals, development advocates and changemakers from across Africa for the 3rd edition of the Africa Emerging Leaders Conference and Awards (AfELCA).
The conference, scheduled to hold on 28 August 2026 at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos, Nigeria, will be held under the theme: “Strengthening Leadership for Africa’s Sustainable Future.”
Now in its third edition, AfELCA has established itself as a platform for meaningful conversations, leadership development, cross-border networking and intergenerational engagement. The initiative provides emerging African leaders with an opportunity to connect with accomplished leaders, exchange ideas, gain practical insights and explore innovative approaches to addressing some of the continent’s most pressing challenges.
The first two editions of the conference were hosted in Accra, Ghana, attracting participants and leaders from different parts of Africa. Bringing the third edition to Lagos, according to the Convener, Olawale Owoyomi, is a deliberate opportunity to expose delegates to Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, hospitality, entrepreneurial spirit and dynamic leadership ecosystem.
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“Lagos is one of Africa’s most vibrant cities and a major centre of enterprise, creativity and innovation. Bringing AfELCA to Nigeria gives participants an opportunity not only to engage in important conversations about Africa’s future, but also to experience the warmth, hospitality and energy that Nigeria and Nigerians are known for,” Owoyomi said.
The 2026 edition will feature distinguished speakers and thought leaders from across the continent, bringing diverse perspectives from governance, public administration, finance, media, economic development and leadership.
Among the confirmed speakers are Fodeba Daboh, Director-General, Sierra Leone Local Content Agency (SLLCA), Sierra Leone. Musuba Cante, Director-General, Supervisory Agency for Savings and Microcredit Activities (ASAPM), Ministry of Finance, Guinea-Bissau and Kayode Ladeinde, Executive Editor, TVC Communications, Nigeria.
The conference will provide a platform for speakers and participants to examine the role of leadership in driving sustainable economic growth, strengthening institutions, empowering young people, promoting inclusive development and positioning Africa for a more resilient future.
Beyond the conference sessions, AfELCA 2026 will also feature an awards segment celebrating individuals whose leadership, innovation, professional excellence and commitment to social impact are contributing meaningfully to Africa’s development.
The organisers describe the awards as a recognition of the people who are not only succeeding in their respective fields but are also creating opportunities, influencing positive change and demonstrating the leadership Africa needs for the future.
With delegates expected from different African countries, the 2026 edition is also designed to create opportunities for networking, collaboration, knowledge exchange and strategic partnerships among participants.
WALEC is inviting emerging and established leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, development professionals, media practitioners, academics, civil society actors and other stakeholders passionate about Africa’s future to participate in the landmark gathering.
The Africa Emerging Leaders Conference and Awards 2026 promises a compelling convergence of ideas, cultures, experiences and leadership perspectives, reinforcing the belief that Africa’s sustainable future will be shaped by leaders who are prepared to engage, collaborate and lead with purpose.
Event Details
Event: Africa Emerging Leaders Conference and Awards (AfELCA) 2026
Edition: 3rd Edition
Date: 28 August 2026
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue: Oriental Hotel, Lagos, Nigeria
Theme: Strengthening Leadership for Africa’s Sustainable Future
Organiser: West African Leadership and Empowerment Centre (WALEC)
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