The fifth edition of the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS 2026) concluded with renewed commitments to accelerate sustainable development across Africa, bringing together more than 2,000 leaders and stakeholders to strengthen partnerships, mobilise financing and advance practical solutions for resilient and inclusive economic growth.

Co-convened by Sterling One Foundation, the United Nations in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, and the Lagos State Government, the three-day summit centred on the theme, “Financing for Development: Building Resilience and Transforming Emerging Economies.”

The gathering attracted policymakers, investors, philanthropists, development partners, business executives, innovators and young changemakers from across Africa and beyond. Discussions focused on expanding investment opportunities, fostering transformative partnerships and securing the financing required to build stronger economies across the continent.

Throughout the summit, participants emphasised that Africa’s development ambitions can only be achieved through stronger collaboration, innovative financing mechanisms and coordinated action. The event translated high-level discussions into concrete initiatives by advancing partnerships, unlocking investment opportunities and promoting practical solutions to enhance resilience and sustainable development.

ASIS 2026 also secured renewed commitments from key partners, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Seplat Energy, IHS Towers and The Coca-Cola Company. The organisations pledged to deepen collaboration, mobilise capital and expand people-centred initiatives aimed at accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while unlocking Africa’s development potential.

Delivering the keynote address, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed stressed the importance of moving beyond pledges to measurable results.

“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.”

Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s investment climate and supporting sustainable economic transformation.

“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.”

Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat reaffirmed Lagos’ position as a hub for investment and innovation while calling for deeper collaboration to address the continent’s development priorities.

“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.”

Sterling One Foundation Chief Executive Officer Olapeju Ibekwe described the summit as a catalyst for long-term action rather than a one-time gathering.

“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.”

Chair of the Africa Social Impact Network (ASIN) Advisory Board, Prof. Banji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, highlighted the need to sustain the momentum generated at the summit through stronger institutions and continuous engagement.

“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 continuously. 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 the summit concluded, organisers said the diversity of participants, quality of discussions and partnerships established further strengthened ASIS’ position as one of Africa’s leading platforms for advancing sustainable development.

Beyond serving as an annual gathering, ASIS 2026 reinforced its role in transforming ideas into action by mobilising partnerships, investments and practical solutions aimed at building resilient economies, accelerating sustainable development and supporting a more prosperous future for Africa.

Source: CNBC Africa