The fifth Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS 2026) took place recently. The event was organized by Sterling One Foundation, the United Nations in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, and the Lagos State Government. Over 2,000 people attended, including leaders, policymakers, investors, philanthropists, business executives, and young changemakers from Africa and beyond. The goal was to spark conversations, form partnerships, and find the funds needed to build strong and inclusive economies.
The summit's theme was “Financing for Development: Building Resilience and Transforming Emerging Economies.” It sent a clear message: Africa’s development goals can only be achieved through teamwork, smart funding, and united efforts. For three days, ASIS 2026 turned discussions into actions. They formed partnerships, opened investment doors, and pushed forward practical solutions to boost resilience and speed up sustainable development across Africa.
The summit also gained renewed support from key partners like the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Seplat Energy, IHS Towers, and The Coca-Cola Company. These partners committed to working more closely, raising funds, and scaling people-focused solutions to help meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and tap into Africa's vast potential.
During her keynote speech, Amina J Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, talked about the need to move from promises to real actions. She said, “Africa possesses the talent, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit needed to shape a more prosperous future. What is required now is bold leadership, strategic investment and stronger partnerships that place people at the centre of development. Financing for development is not simply about mobilising resources, it is about creating opportunities, strengthening resilience and ensuring that no one is left behind as Africa charts its own development pathway.”
Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, spoke at the summit too. He emphasized the Federal Government’s plan to create a welcoming atmosphere for investments and push for sustainable economic change. He said, “Nigeria remains committed to implementing policies that strengthen investor confidence, promote inclusive growth and accelerate sustainable development. Achieving Africa’s development aspirations requires innovative financing, sound governance and sustained collaboration between governments, the private sector, development partners and civil society. Together, we can unlock the capital and opportunities needed to transform our economies.”
Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, spoke on behalf of the Governor. He reinforced Lagos’ role as a top place for investment and innovation. He called for stronger partnerships to tackle Africa’s development challenges. He said, “Africa’s future will be shaped by our ability to invest in people, infrastructure, innovation and sustainable enterprises. Lagos is proud to host conversations that inspire action and partnerships capable of driving meaningful impact. We must continue to build resilient institutions and economies that create opportunities for every African.”
Olapeju Ibekwe, the Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, shared his view on the summit's importance. He said ASIS is not just a conference but a platform that drives action across Africa. He noted, “ASIS 2026 has reaffirmed a simple truth: Africa already has the ideas, talent and determination to shape its future. What we need now is bold collaboration, innovative financing and the resolve to move from dialogue to delivery. Every partnership forged and every commitment made here brings us closer to building resilient economies and creating lasting impact for millions across the continent. Our work does not end with this summit, it continues through the partnerships we build and the actions we take together.”
Prof Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, Chair of the Africa Social Impact Network (ASIN) Advisory Board, spoke about keeping the momentum from the summit. He stressed the need for stronger institutions and ongoing collaboration. He said, “The outcomes of ASIS 2026 demonstrate that Africa’s greatest opportunity lies in sustained collaboration that extends beyond annual convenings. The launch of the Africa Social Impact Network marks an important step towards institutionalising that collaboration by connecting governments, development institutions, businesses, academia, philanthropies, and investors on a continuous basis. By strengthening partnerships, mobilising knowledge and financing, and supporting implementation, ASIN will help translate bold ideas into measurable outcomes that advance Africa’s long-term economic transformation and sustainable development.”
As ASIS 2026 wrapped up, the variety of voices, depth of talks, and strength of new partnerships reaffirmed the summit's role as Africa’s main platform for promoting sustainable development. More than just a meeting, ASIS is changing bold ideas into real actions. It is gathering the partnerships, investments, and solutions needed to build strong economies, speed up sustainable development, and create a better future for Africa.
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