Maritime, business leaders, policymakers to converge at 8th Global Leadership Summit in Lagos

By Florence Kalu

Maritime and business leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, professionals and other key stakeholders from across Nigeria’s economy are expected to converge in Lagos for the 8th Global Leadership Summit & Award 2026, scheduled for September 12.

The summit, organised by Searchlight News Online, Global Searchlight Magazine and SLTV Online, productions of Sygnific La Enterprise, will hold at Presken Hotel & Resort, 144 Awolowo Way, opposite Lagos Airport Hotel, by Balogun Bus Stop, Ikeja, Lagos.

Beginning at 10:00 a.m., the summit will focus on the theme, “Transformative Leadership for Sustainable Growth: Driving Innovation, Institutional Excellence and National Development.”

The organisers said the theme was chosen against the backdrop of growing demands for leadership that goes beyond titles and positions to deliver measurable results, strengthen institutions, promote innovation and create sustainable economic opportunities.

Adesokan

Convener of the summit, Olori Lola Adesokan, said the gathering would provide a platform for leaders and professionals to examine the relationship between leadership, institutional performance and national development.

“Leadership must be about what we build, who we empower and the difference we make. The Summit is our modest contribution to promoting a culture where excellence, integrity, innovation and service are recognised and celebrated,” she said.

Maritime development is expected to feature prominently at the summit, with industry experts scheduled to share perspectives on emerging challenges, opportunities and the role of effective leadership in unlocking the sector’s contribution to the Nigerian economy.

Among the featured presenters is Dr. Odunayo Boyepe Ani, Director, Financial Services Department, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and President, WISTA Nigeria.

Other speakers include Mr. Liav Zilberman, General Manager, L.T.T Coastal & Marine Services Limited; Mrs. Funmilayo Omowumi Loremikan, a maritime, logistics and human capital development professional; and Hajia Bola Mustapha, President, National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP).

The organisers said the presentations would provide practical perspectives on leadership, innovation and institutional excellence while examining how professionals and institutions can adapt to changing economic, technological and social realities.

A major highlight of the event will be the presentation of the Global Leadership Awards to individuals and organisations considered to have demonstrated outstanding leadership, professional excellence, innovation, enterprise and service.

Among the expected recipients are Mrs. Theodora Nwaeze, President, WIMA Nigeria; Dr. Odunayo Boyepe Ani, President, WISTA Nigeria; Apapa Customs Command; Comrade Olufemi Oluyinka Abass, Customs Area Controller, Idiroko Command; and Comrade Olufemi Oluyinka Abass, President, Shipping, Clearing and Forwarding Agencies Branch of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN).

Others include Chief Chukwumalu Emeka, Chairman, ANLCA Apapa Chapter; Mr. Chidera Oganuzor, MD/CEO, Odest Bonded Terminal; Mr. Kevin Chinedu Okechukwu, President, Kirikiri Truckers Association; Rev. Nicodemus Odolo, President, Shippers Association of Lagos State (SALS); Mr. Sani Musa Innocent, MD/CEO, PSM Freight Forwarding Logistics & Solutions; and Mrs. Obiageli Benjamin, Secretary-General, WIMA Nigeria, among other distinguished stakeholders.

The organisers said the awards were designed to celebrate individuals and institutions whose contributions have produced positive impact within their sectors and society.

The summit will also celebrate the 60th birthday of Mrs. Obiageli Benjamin, Secretary-General, WIMA Nigeria and Managing Director, Zadok Global Investment Limited, in recognition of her contributions to women empowerment, maritime development, entrepreneurship and community service.

The Chairman of the occasion, Barr. Ovien Michael Imonitie, MD/CEO, Mimov Global Ventures Limited, is expected to lead distinguished guests at the event.

Beyond the formal presentations and awards, the summit is expected to provide networking opportunities for professionals, business leaders, policymakers, maritime stakeholders and media practitioners.

The organisers said the gathering was ultimately aimed at promoting a culture of leadership that produces tangible results, creates opportunities and contributes meaningfully to national development.