Industry leaders, colleagues and friends recently gathered in Lagos to celebrate the Chairman of CIG Motors, Diana Chen on her birthday for her achievement and philosophy in business and human relations.
Hosted by CIG Motors, the event aptly titled “An Afternoon with Diana Chen,” transcended a mere celebration, unfolding as a series of profound dialogues that illuminated her remarkable journey, pioneering spirit, and enduring influence as a global trailblazer and cultural architect.
Chen, a luminary in the global business landscape and a revered figure in China-Africa relations, is the Chairman of CIG Motors. Also a triple chief, she serves as the Vice Chairman of the China-Africa Business Council.
“Diana Chen is not just a business leader; she is an architect of cross-continental progress,” stated Dr. Ram, CFO of CIG Motors. “As Vice Chairman of the China-Africa Business Council, she has championed over $2 billion in investments into Africa, demonstrating that her leadership standard demands excellence and delivers profound impact, perpetually aspiring to make a difference rather than simply a living.”
The event, an epitome of elevated elegance, drew a distinguished audience comprising chief executive officers, bank managing directors, and pioneers from diverse sectors, all gathering to pay tribute to a woman whose influence stretches across continents.
Two thoughtfully curated panel sessions offered rare and intimate insights into the person behind the title, providing a seamless “Conversation with Chief Diana Chen.” The first, “Home Away from Home: The Journey of a Cultural Bridge,” anchored by the insightful Toyosi Etim-Effiong, featured Diana Chen alongside two close friends-turned-sisters: Executive Director of Access Bank Corporate & Investment Banking, Mrs. Iyabo Soji-Okunsanya, and Director General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Dr. Chinyere Almona,
The discussion illuminated Chen’s unwavering positivity about Nigeria, her intentional approach to life, and her unique ability to foster a sense of being heard without imposing her thoughts, constantly exploring new horizons.
The panel celebrated her unique cultural journey, highlighting how embracing Nigeria has profoundly influenced her leadership and personal life, rooted in shared values and exciting prospects.
“Legacy and Creative Impact: Beyond Business & Borders,” the second session, hosted by Osarogie Ogbonmwan, delved into Chen’s expansive vision of legacy, leadership, and her unwavering passion for creativity and culture.
Featuring insightful contributions from Group Managing Director/CEO of the Nigerian Exchange Group, Temi Popoola and President/CEO of Oando Clean Energy, Ademola Ogunbanjo, the panel illuminated Chen’s remarkable humility, tireless work ethic, and pioneering spirit.
It underscored her conviction that “one should not aspire to make a living, but rather aspire to make a difference,” inspiring attendees with timeless lessons on leadership, mentorship, and seamlessly integrating creativity into impactful work.
The highlight was the presence of students from Yaba College of Technology. These bright scholars are direct beneficiaries of the Silk Road International Fellowship Programme, a transformative initiative Chen passionately supports that has enabled them to study automobile engineering in China.
Their attendance powerfully underscored the life-changing opportunities her leadership creates for Africa’s next generation of innovators. As one student shared, “Thanks to Chief Diana’s vision and support, we have gained world-class skills that will shape our futures and the future of Africa’s automotive industry.”
In his closing remarks, Executive Director of CIG Motors, Jubril Arogundade said: “Chief Diana has reminded us that power lies not just in titles or achievements, but in authenticity, resilience, and service to others. She’s shown us that greatness is built not only in boardrooms, but in moments of courage, compassion, and purpose. Her story is a call to lead with more heart, to dream bigger, and to lift others as we rise.”
