Tony Elumelu, the powerhouse behind Heirs Holdings, UBA, and The Tony Elumelu Foundation, recently co-chaired the New Africa Summit at this year’s Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia which took place from 29th-31st October. Centred around the theme “Infinite Horizons,” the eighth edition of FII gathered top global leaders to explore how smart investments can create a sustainable and prosperous future. With Elumelu’s insights guiding the conversation, Africa took centre stage, showcasing its potential to the world.
As one of Africa’s strongest advocates and philanthropists, Elumelu highlighted the critical role of entrepreneurship and youth empowerment in transforming the continent. Drawing on the success of the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s approach to empowerment, he made the case for sustained investment in Africa’s talent, sharing the foundation’s impact in launching thousands of thriving African entrepreneurs.
During the event’s Opening Plenary, titled “Board of Changemakers: Banking & Investment,” Elumelu joined a lineup of influential voices to discuss how visionary leadership can help shape new, forward-thinking economic systems.
Other Attendees from Heirs Holdings
Owen Omogiafo, President and Group CEO of Transcorp Group, joined the HERizon Summit, where she shared her thoughts on the essential role of women in creating sustainable supply chains, drawing from Transcorp’s transformative work in power, hospitality, and energy.
Osa Igiehon, CEO of Heirs Energies, spoke about energy transition and security, sharing how Heirs Energies is advancing green investments and energy independence in Nigeria.
Muyiwa Akinyemi, Deputy Managing Director of UBA Group, participated in a panel session focused on UBA’s unique role in the Gulf, highlighting the bank’s commitment to strengthening economic ties between Africa and the GCC region.
At the summit, Elumelu said, “The relationship between Africa and the Gulf has evolved to be a thriving economic partnership, driving growth across both regions. I am proud to co-chair the New Africa Summit at FII, where we will explore mutually beneficial investment opportunities between Africa and the Gulf and highlight the key role entrepreneurship plays in transforming visions into ventures. Together, Africa and the Gulf are building a legacy of shared prosperity for a better tomorrow.”
Empowerment
TheTony Elumelu Foundation also hosted a session on youth entrepreneurship, emphasising why Africa’s young talent is key to building lasting prosperity.
FII 2024 was a powerful platform for Africa to share its story with the world. With Elumelu and his team’s leadership, the event showcased Africa’s potential and underscored the continent’s drive to build a self-sustaining, innovative future.
Read Also: Empowering Africa for the Future
