Digital Innovation as a Catalyst for Inclusive Economic Growth

Harnessing Digital Innovation for Nigeria's Economic Growth and Sustainable Development
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Introducing IBD Conference 2025

Nigeria stands at the threshold of becoming a dominant force in the global digital economy. With a population exceeding 220 million—over half of whom are under the age of 30 and an ICT sector contributing nearly 20% to the country's GDP as of Q2 2024, the foundation for transformation is clear. Yet, millions of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) still face challenges in accessing digital tools, infrastructure, and skills, which limit their growth potential.

In response to these urgent needs, the Institute of Business Development (IBD) proudly announces its 10th Annual Conference & Awards 2025,. This year’s summit, themed “Harnessing Digital Innovation for Nigeria’s Economic Growth and Sustainable Development”, will take place on November 26–27, 2025, at the prestigious African Continental Hotel, Abuja.

The event will bring together policymakers, corporate leaders, fintech innovators, tech entrepreneurs, and MSME advocates to address the digital divide with practical solutions. The goal is to foster inclusive enterprise growth and turn Nigeria’s digital potential into strategic and sustainable development.

Why This Conference Matters

Despite the digital economy’s growing share of national GDP, digital exclusion continues to limit progress for MSMEs and underserved communities. Unlike others, IBD Conference 2025 focuses on action, not just talk. With a powerful dual-track structure (policy + practical), it delivers real-world strategies, peer exchange, merit recognition & hands-on workshops that connect ideas to impact. The IBD Conference is a catalytic platform to:

  • Connect tech innovators with policymakers
  • Bridge strategy with practical, grassroots implementation
  • Accelerate inclusive growth using real-world digital solutions

Conference Highlights

  • High-Impact Keynotes: From top-tier innovators, policy influencers, and global development leaders
  • Strategic Panel Discussions: On digital policy, financial inclusion, and SME digital transformation
  • Hands-On Workshops: Actionable toolkits and frameworks to boost competitiveness
  • Tech Showcase Arena: Featuring frontier startups, smart solutions, and digital enablers
  • IBD Digital Excellence Merit Awards: Celebrating impactful leaders and innovations
  • Networking Dinner & Entertainment Night: Connect, celebrate, and unwind

What You Will Gain

• Strategic Insights: Learn from sector leaders driving digital transformation
• Practical Skills: Access plug-and-play tools tailored for Nigerian MSMEs
• Collaboration Opportunities: Build meaningful partnerships with players across tech, finance, academia, and government
• Visibility & Recognition: Elevate your profile as a digital ecosystem stakeholder

Who Should Attend?

• Policymakers & Regulatory Bodies
• Tech-enabled Entrepreneurs & MSMEs
• Fintech Firms & Financial Institutions
• Business Development Professionals (BDPs)
• Tech Service Providers & Startups
• Civil Society & Nonprofits
• Academia, Researchers & Students

What Past Participants Are Saying

Opeyemi Odulaja

Principal Consultant, Coach Homes

“The workshops were practical, locally relevant, and immediately useful.”

Kingsley Obika

CEO, Koobik Drones

“A truly collaborative space—discussions led to real follow-up partnerships.”

Chuma Obum

MD, True Business Solutions

“Renewed my confidence in Nigeria’s capacity to support business development initiatives and interventions.”

Dr. Paul Ikele

Speaker

Registrar/CEO, The Institute of Business Development

Conference schedule

This schedule is subject to change; however any changes will be communicated to all attendees via mail.
8:00 - 9:30 am

9:30 – 9:45 am

The Institute

Welcome Remarks - MC

Opening Address -The Registrar/CEO

Special Address - The President of the Institute

Presentation of conference objectives, expected outcome and agenda - The Conference Chairman

9:45 – 10:35 am

Mr. Adebayo Olawale Edun
The Minister of Finance
10:35 – 11:45 am

Introduction to the conference themes

11:45 am – 12:15 pm

12:15 pm – 1:30 pm

Presentations on key topics

1:30pm – 2:30 pm

2:30 pm - 04:30 pm

Topic 1:
Topic 2:
Topic 3:
Topic 4:

Summary of Day’s Activities

8:30am - 9:00am

Registrations

9:00am – 9:30 am

Opening and Review of Day 1 Presentations

9:30am – 11:00 am

11:00 – 11:30 am

11:30 am – 12:30 pm

Detailed discussions on key topics

Summary of breakout sessions

1:30 – 2:30 pm

Regulators
Policy Developers
Funding Agencies
Support Institution
Institutional Development Partner
Practitioners
Informal Trader Groups

Incorporation into the Communiqué document

7:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Awards, Induction of Fellows, Music and Dancing

Special Guests

Highly qualified & competent personalities will be speaking at the conference.

His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President and Commander In Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria

His Excellency Godswill Akpabio, Senate President Federal Republic of Nigeria

Her Excellency Dr. Olajumoke Oduwole MFR, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment

His Excellency Nyesom Wike Minister of Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria

Conference Speakers

Highly qualified & competent personalities will be speaking at the conference.

Dr. Bosun Tijani

Goodwill Message

Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy

Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi

Keynote Speaker 1

Director-General/CEO, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA)

Chudi Ugwuada Ezirigwe

Keynote Speaker 2

Acting MD/CEO, Abuja Enterprise Agency (AEA)

Dr. Olajumoke Oduwole MFR

Keynote Speaker 3

Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment

Dr. Tony Okpanachi

Keynote Speaker 4

Managing Director, Development Bank of Nigeria

Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu

Keynote Speaker 5

Executive Vice Chairman/CEO National Agency for Science & Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI)

Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku

Keynote Speaker 6

MD/CEO, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria

Dr. Paul Ikele

Speaker

Registrar/CEO, The Institute of Business Development

Conference Sponsors

The following organizations are sponsors of the 2023 Annual IBD Conference.
mlogo

CONFERENCE VENUE

Jacaranda Hall,
Abuja Continental Hotel,
Zone 4, 1 Ladi Kwali St, Wuse,
Abuja 900001, Federal Capital Territory

RSVP: (+234) 08080795347
For any enquiries contact the number above.

Join Us – Be Part of Nigeria’s Digital Future

Let’s harness digital innovation to drive prosperity, inclusion, and resilience across Nigeria’s economy.
Register Now

Save the Dates: November 26–27, 2025
Early-bird registration opens soon!

To indicate interest or explore sponsorship, contact: [08080795347 & 08024529500]

Together, we can shape the Nigeria of tomorrow!

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