Investors, Leaders To Convene For 2026 Africa Social Impact Summit

Investors, policymakers and global leaders are set to gather in Lagos for the 2026 Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS), aimed at mobilising capital and partnerships to accelerate sustainable development across the continent.

The summit, scheduled for July, will be held at the Eko Convention Centre under the theme, “Financing for Development: Building Resilience and Transforming Emerging Economies.”

Convened by the Sterling One Foundation in collaboration with the United Nations in Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Budget and National Planning, the summit is expected to bring together stakeholders from government, private sector, philanthropy and civil society to drive investment into key development sectors.

Speaking ahead of the event, Mohamed Malick Fall said the summit would serve as a platform to advance progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals through stronger collaboration.

He noted that mobilising capital, innovation and partnerships remains critical to unlocking inclusive and sustainable growth across Africa.

Also speaking, Abubakar Suleiman emphasised the importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing Africa’s development challenges, adding that platforms such as ASIS provide opportunities to unlock ideas, funding and partnerships.

Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, said the country welcomes initiatives that foster policy dialogue and attract global investment, stressing that collaboration between governments and development partners is key to economic growth and improved livelihoods.

In her remarks, Olapeju Ibekwe said the summit was designed to move beyond dialogue by delivering measurable outcomes that support Africa’s development priorities.

She added that the platform would focus on scaling solutions across sectors such as education, healthcare, women empowerment, food systems and youth development.

Organisers said the 2026 edition will feature high-level dialogues, investor roundtables and sector-focused sessions aimed at unlocking financing and partnerships in areas including the creative economy and sustainable finance.

The summit is expected to attract over 2,000 delegates from more than 50 countries, including government officials, global investors, development finance institutions, corporate leaders and entrepreneurs.

Participants will engage in discussions and investment-focused sessions designed to create new financing pathways and partnerships that can drive inclusive growth across Africa.