The Africa We See: Olu of Warri and Queen Olori Host Groundbreaking Elevate Africa Event

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A Landmark Event in African Development

His Imperial Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, alongside the Queen Consort of Warri Kingdom, Olori Atuwatse III, spearheaded the first-ever Elevate Africa Global Convening through their non-governmental organisation, Elevate Africa. Themed ‘The Africa We See,’ held on October 10th and 11th, 2024, at the Yaradua Centre and culminated with Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, sought to reframe Africa’s global image and inspire collective action.

In his opening remarks, Ogiame Atuwatse III delivered a compelling vision: “The Africa We See is an Africa unbound from the stereotype narratives of darkness and retrogression she has been plagued with. The Africa we see stands tall and shines bright. Her strength is known, and her contribution to the advancement of humanity is evident.” This message set the tone for a convening to celebrate Africa’s rich diversity and potential, often overlooked by the rest of the world.

The two-day event featured diverse, distinguished guests and thought leaders from across the continent and beyond. These speakers, representing various sectors, participated in keynote speeches, breakout sessions, and leadership dialogues, ensuring a comprehensive representation of Africa’s unique contributions and inspiring a shared vision for the continent’s future.

Changing the African Narrative

Queen Olori Atuwatse III was integral in driving the central theme, passionately advocating for a new narrative for Africa. “For too long, the world has viewed Africa through a narrow lens, ignoring our great realities,” she said, emphasising the power of storytelling to reshape perceptions. “Through various platforms, we seek to tell the authentic African story.” Her remarks underscored the convening’s objective: to promote a future-focused Africa that tells its own stories.

Davido: Rebranding Africa through Music

Pop star Davido made a significant impact, sharing how his music and platform have changed perceptions about Africa. He highlighted the growing recognition of Africa’s influence in global entertainment, noting that his international peers are frequently surprised by the development and vibrancy of the continent, particularly Nigeria. “Whenever I invite colleagues or friends from outside Africa to Nigeria, they’re amazed by how developed it is,” Davido remarked.=

Empowering Africa’s Youth

Nana Shettima, wife of Nigeria’s Vice President, also spoke at the event. She stressed the critical role of young Africans in driving the continent’s development, discussed government youth empowerment initiatives, and stressed the importance of providing platforms for Africa’s youth to take the reins of leadership. Her message instilled optimism about the potential of Africa’s next generation.

Panels and Keynote Speakers

Esteemed guests and panellists from across various sectors added depth to the discussions. Speakers included Walton Gilpin, MD/CEO of Rokel Commercial Bank, Sierra Leone; Tim Hanstad, Vice Chairman of Chandler Foundation, Singapore; Fabrice Rulinda, Lord Mayor of Entebbe, Uganda; Serah Makka, Executive Director for Africa at One; Jane Kimemia, CEO of Optiva Capital Partners; Juanita Sheppard, VP of Foundation and Government Partnerships at United Way of Greater Atlanta; and Melida Harris-Barrow, CEO of the 6th Region Global Chamber of Commerce.

In addition, notable figures like Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina, and former President of Mauritius Ameenah Gurib-Fakim contributed to thought-provoking discussions on economic development and leadership.

Entertainment and Cultural Highlights

Nigerian superstars Davido and Teni Apata electrified the audience with their musical performances. At the same time, award-winning poet Maryam Bukar-Hassan, also known as Alhanislam, delivered stirring poetry that resonated with the theme of African pride and resilience.

Other notable speakers included Fela Durotoye, founder and CEO of Gemstone Group; former Liberian Vice President Jewel Taylor; MD of Paralex Bank, Femi Bakre; Olori Boye-Ajayi, managing partner at Borderless Trade Network; Debola Deji-Kurunmi, founder of IMMERSE Coaching Company; and veteran actor Hilda Dokubo.

The Elevate Africa Global Convening left a lasting impact, bringing together Africa’s best and brightest to celebrate the continent’s potential and chart a path toward a reimagined future. Through powerful stories, music, and thought leadership, the event successfully challenged old perceptions and opened the door to new possibilities for Africa, inspiring hope and optimism for the continent’s future.