Dr Olaiya to Headline Africa Business & Enterprise Conference, Awards 2026

Dr Olaiya to Headline Africa Business & Enterprise Conference, Awards 2026

Renowned entrepreneur and business executive, Dr Olufemi Olaiya, has been announced as the keynote speaker for the maiden edition of the Africa Business & Enterprise Conference & Awards 2026, scheduled for October 2, 2026, at Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The event, organised by Marketing Space Magazine, will commence at 2:00 p.m. and is themed, “Empowering Business Through Innovation and Leadership for Sustainable Growth.”

The conference is expected to bring together leading entrepreneurs, business executives, investors, policymakers, professionals, innovators and other stakeholders to examine emerging trends, exchange ideas and explore practical strategies for strengthening businesses and promoting sustainable enterprise development across Africa.

Olaiya, who brings nearly three decades of entrepreneurial and corporate leadership experience to the event, is the Group Chief Executive Officer of JESCHRIL GROUP, a diversified business conglomerate with interests in media and advertising, renewable energy, digital signage and ProAV technology, agribusiness and business services.

Over the years, he has built and managed businesses while providing strategic leadership across various sectors. His experience spans entrepreneurship, business growth, innovation, strategy, corporate governance and organisational development.

He has also worked with start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises, public institutions and established organisations, helping them navigate business challenges, identify opportunities and develop strategies for sustainable growth.

According to the organisers, Olaiya’s extensive practical experience makes him well positioned to address some of the critical issues confronting businesses on the continent, particularly amid rapid technological advancement, changing consumer markets and the increasing demand for innovative leadership.

The Publisher of Marketing Space Magazine, Ayobami Lukman-Ishau, said the decision to invite Olaiya as keynote speaker was informed by his wealth of experience and proven contributions to business development and leadership.

He said, “We believe Dr Olaiya’s participation will significantly enrich the conference, particularly at a time when African businesses are navigating rapid technological change, evolving markets and the growing need for innovative and effective leadership.”

Lukman-Ishau added that Olaiya’s keynote would inspire emerging entrepreneurs, offer fresh perspectives to established businesses and contribute to the wider conversation on Africa’s economic and enterprise development.

A sought-after speaker and mentor, Olaiya is recognised for his practical insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, business strategy, innovation, renewable energy, governance, sales and marketing, as well as personal development.

His keynote address is expected to challenge conventional approaches to business while equipping participants with practical ideas for building resilient, innovative and sustainable enterprises.

Olaiya holds a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), with specialisation in Mergers and Acquisitions. He is a member of the Institute of Directors (MIoD), the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN) and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON).

He is also the Chairman of J27 International Foundation and an Independent Non-Executive Director of SOHCAHTOA Finance Company Limited.

The Africa Business & Enterprise Conference & Awards 2026 is expected to combine high-level business conversations with recognition of outstanding individuals and organisations contributing to the growth and development of Africa’s enterprise ecosystem.