The RMB Think Summit 2024 in Nigeria is the first of its kind in West Africa. The insightful event took place at the grand Landmark Centre, Lagos, on the 10th of October, 2024, bringing together some of the most influential minds from across Africa and the globe to reimagine the future of finance, technology, sustainability, and societal transformation in Nigeria and across Africa.

Hosted by Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), the theme “Future Reimagined” was chosen to challenge conventional boundaries and inspire innovative progress, focusing on Nigeria and the wider African continent.

According to Bayo Ajayi, CEO of RMB Nigeria, today’s summit is not just a platform for discussions—it is an invitation to rethink the way we approach finance, sustainability, technology, and societal transformation, both here in Nigeria and across Africa.

The event featured a lineup of remarkable speakers. From experts in economics to leaders in technology and sustainability, guests were enlightened on key areas where Africa can lead and innovate.

One of the prominent figures at the event, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, Nigeria, Dr. Bosun Tijani, delivered an insightful presentation on the future of Africa in the digital age.

“While our world is undergoing significant changes globally, it is important for the African continent to step up and leverage our resources to ensure we can take advantage of global shifts to change our position,” said Dr. Tijani.

He further stressed the importance of upskilling Africa’s youthful population with the necessary digital skills to thrive in the modern world, a message that aligned with the event’s focus on innovation.

Isaah Mhlanga, the Chief Economist at RMB, opened discussions on the future of African economies in a world grappling with instability and uncertainty.

He was followed by Dr. Christian Ebeke, the IMF Resident Representative for Nigeria, who analysed the global economic outlook and its implications for African markets.

Other prominent speakers included Nigel Beck, Head of Sustainable Finance & ESG Advisory at RMB; Nzambi Matee, Founder & CEO of Gjenge Makers, a Kenyan company transforming plastic waste into sustainable building materials; David Hutchful, Co-Founder & CTO of Yemaachi Biotechnology, who noted the potential of technology in genomic research to revolutionise healthcare on the continent; and Dr. Jania Okwechime, a Partner leading Data Analytics and AI at Deloitte West Africa.

The RMB Think Summit not only focused on technology and finance but it spotlighted Africa’s leadership, art, fashion, and culture. Prof. P.L.O. Lumumba, a visionary leader and Pan-African advocate, and Prof. Wole Soyinka, Nobel Laureate and Nigerian playwright, spoke passionately about Africa’s potential to liberate itself from economic dependence on other continents. They also stressed how Nigerian and African youths can redefine the continent’s future by embracing both historical traditions and modern technology.

The Chairman & Co-Founder of Made in Africa (MIA), Chairman of Vector Global, and Founder of Africa10, Kojo Annan, engaged in a fireside discussion with Mazino Appeal, highlighting strategies for sustainable economic growth in Africa through the utilisation of Made in Africa products.

Additionally, Olakunle Soriyan, founder of Kenneth Soriyan Research & Ideas LLC, delivered a compelling presentation that resonated with the summit’s theme of reimagining Africa’s future through effective leadership and strategic vision.

The entertainment industry was not left out, as Nigerian-born British actor and cultural advocate John Boyega, during his fireside session, spoke about his Abeokuta roots and how his heritage influenced his mission to empower the African diaspora. Boyega stressed the importance of African representation in Hollywood and cultural pride, encouraging Nigerians and Africans across the continent to tell their own stories on the global stage.

Another key session featured a dynamic panel discussion on the topic, “The Art of Step Change,” which focused on identifying and embracing pivotal moments and recognizing the opportunities they present. Moderated by Isaah Mhlanga, the panel included Khadidiatou Faye, Co-Founder of Sikili and Strategic Marketing Consultant, and Omowunmi Imohkuede, CEO of Eviola & Co Integrated Services Ltd.

The RMB Think Summit 2024 served as a powerful reminder that Africa’s future lies in its ability to innovate, reimagine, and utilise its vast resources and talent. With a focus on digital transformation, sustainability, and leadership, the summit paved the way for new discussions and actions that will shape the continent’s path forward.