Papyrus Global Mayors Conference/Awards Announces Prof. Alabi As Key Voice On Governance Reform

BY HAMIDAT YAHAYA, Abuja

Momentum continues to build ahead of The Papyrus Global Mayors Conference and Awards (PAGMACA) 2026, as organisers confirm Prof. Mojeed Olujinmi Alabi as one of the event’s keynote speakers.

The Pan-African gathering, scheduled for April 29 to May 1, 2026, in Abuja, will convene leaders, policymakers, and development stakeholders from across more than 20 African countries. The conference will center on the theme: “Strengthening Local Governance for Resilient, Inclusive, and Sustainable African Communities.”

At a time when questions around transparency and accountability dominate governance discourse across the continent, Prof. Alabi’s inclusion signals a strong focus on institutional reform. His keynote session will explore the intersection of legislative oversight and grassroots governance, offering perspectives on how democratic systems can better serve local communities.

Currently the provost of the College of Law at Osun State University, Alabi’s career reflects a blend of academic scholarship and hands-on political leadership. His experience spans service as speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly and as a member of the House of Representatives of the 8th National Assembly, where he helped advance legislative processes and governance standards.

Beyond public office, he has remained deeply involved in policy development and capacity building, contributing to initiatives that strengthen democratic institutions and legislative practice across Africa.

According to the conference organisers, his selection aligns with PAGMACA’s broader vision of convening leaders whose work bridges theory and real-world governance. His session is expected to spark critical conversations on improving accountability systems and reinforcing public trust at the local government level.

Speaking on the announcement, Hon. Doofan Damsa-Justin, managing director of The Papyrus Global and Project Initiator, emphasised the importance of practical experience in shaping policy dialogue.

He noted that as governance expectations continue to rise across African communities, voices like Rt. Hon. Prof. Alabi’s are essential in driving meaningful and implementable reforms.

PAGMACA 2026 is expected to attract over 60 mayors of African descent from Africa, the United States, Asia, and Europe, alongside key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. The conference will serve as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas to strengthen governance systems and accelerate sustainable development.

With this latest confirmation, PAGMACA 2026 further reinforces its role as a convening point for forward-thinking leadership and impactful policy engagement across the continent.