8th Global Leadership Summit 2026 to Spotlight Transformative Leadership, Innovation, National Development
Top professionals, maritime stakeholders, entrepreneurs, policymakers and public servants to converge in Lagos
The 8th edition of the Global Leadership Summit & Award 2026 is set to bring together leading professionals, entrepreneurs, maritime stakeholders, policymakers, public servants and development advocates for a high-level dialogue on transformative leadership, innovation and national development.
The summit, organised by Searchlight News Online, Global Searchlight Magazine and SLTV Online, productions of Sygnific La Enterprise, will hold on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Presken Hotel & Resort, 144 Awolowo Way, opposite Lagos Airport Hotel, by Balogun Bus Stop, Ikeja, Lagos.
Themed “Transformative Leadership for Sustainable Growth: Driving Innovation, Institutional Excellence and National Development,” the event will examine the role of effective leadership in building stronger institutions, promoting innovation, improving accountability and advancing sustainable development.
According to the organisers, the summit is designed to move the conversation on leadership beyond titles and positions by focusing on measurable impact, practical solutions and the ability of individuals and institutions to create lasting value in society.
The Convener, Olori Lola Adesokan, said the summit was established to promote a culture of excellence, integrity, innovation and service.
“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.
A major feature of the event will be keynote and expert presentations addressing contemporary issues in leadership, maritime development, business, innovation and national growth.
Among the featured speakers is Dr. Odunayo Boyepe Ani, Director, Financial Services Department, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and President of 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 of the National Association of Tour Operators (NATOP).
The organisers said the presentations would provide practical perspectives on how professionals, businesses and institutions can adapt to changing economic, technological and social realities.
The summit will also feature the presentation of the Global Leadership Awards, recognising individuals and institutions for outstanding contributions to their sectors through leadership, innovation, enterprise, professional service and positive social impact.
Among the announced award recipients are Mrs. Theodora Nwaeze, President, WIMA Nigeria; Dr. Odunayo Boyepe Ani, President, WISTA Nigeria; the Apapa Customs Command; the Customs Area Controller, Idiroko Command; Comrade Olufemi Oluyinka Abass, President, Shipping, Clearing and Forwarding Agencies Branch of the Maritime Workers' Union of Nigeria (MWUN); 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.
Another highlight of the event will be the celebration of the 60th birthday of Mrs. Obiageli Benjamin, Secretary-General of Women in Maritime Africa (WIMA) Nigeria and Managing Director of Zadok Global Investment Limited.
The organisers said the birthday celebration would also provide an opportunity to acknowledge 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 and participants in setting the tone for discussions on responsible and transformative leadership.
Beyond the formal sessions and awards, the summit is expected to provide a networking platform for professionals, business leaders, policymakers, media practitioners, maritime stakeholders and members of the wider business community.
The organisers said the 8th Global Leadership Summit & Award is anchored on the belief that effective leadership should deliver results, create opportunities and leave society better than it was found.
The event is expected to attract participants from various sectors of the Nigerian economy as the organisers seek to strengthen the summit's position as a platform for recognising excellence and promoting responsible leadership.
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