Rising Nigerian policy strategist and youth advocate Abiola Odetola has called for a fundamental rethink of African governance models and infrastructure development.
Speaking at the Olin Africa Business Forum 2025, hosted by Washington University in St. Louis, Odetola emphasised that Africa’s long-term economic and social sustainability depends on bold governance reforms prioritising innovation, inclusion, and strategic infrastructure investments.
The two-day forum, themed “Redefining Africa’s Business Narrative: Thriving Beyond Borders with Sustainable Businesses,” brought together top African professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore key areas such as technology, health, business, and governance. Over the years, the forum has hosted former Presidents, top business executives, and Ambassadors, making it a significant platform for shaping Africa’s economic and governance future.
During the Policy & Governance panel, which featured Grace Musoro, CEO of Aquiantz Consulting, and Segun Babalola, Founder/Advisor at the African Chambers of Commerce, Odetola highlighted the transformative power of infrastructure investments.
He pointed to Nigeria’s ongoing Coastal Road construction project as a model for how deliberate infrastructure development can unlock economic potential, create jobs, and promote regional trade.
“We cannot build a thriving Africa without a solid infrastructure backbone. The Nigerian government’s Coastal Road project demonstrates how deliberate investments in road networks can enhance connectivity, boost commerce, and open up economic opportunities for millions. If replicated across the continent with proper governance oversight, such projects can be a game-changer for Africa’s development,” he stated.
Odetola also used the forum to challenge graduating MBA students of African descent at Washington University’s Olin Business School to contribute to Africa’s development actively. He urged them to leverage their knowledge, expertise, and networks to drive transformation on the continent.
“Africa’s development will not be a sudden miracle; it will result from conscious, strategic input from its best minds, especially in political leadership. If we do not intentionally prepare and position young leaders, we will keep recycling old governance models that no longer serve our future. I challenge every African graduate from institutions like Washington University to find ways to give back, invest in Africa, and shape the policies that will define our continent’s next century,” Odetola declared.
The forum also featured high-profile speakers, including Austin Okere, CEO of CWG PLC; Olusola Amusan, CEO of Vesti; Jimi Tewe, CEO of Jimi Tewe LLC; and Afua Appea, Director of Product Management at Mastercard. Mojisola Fashola, CEO of Salt Advisory and MD/General Counsel at Kuramo Capital Management, delivered the keynote address.
The Olin Africa Business Forum 2025 once again proved to be a pivotal platform for driving conversations that shape Africa’s business, technology, and governance landscape. With young, dynamic voices like Odetola championing innovative governance and sustainable infrastructure, the forum underscored the urgent need for African leaders to embrace forward-thinking policies that ensure long-term prosperity for the continent.
