The Financial Times (FT) has announced that the 12th edition of its flagship FT Africa Summit will gather global leaders, policymakers, innovators, and investors to explore Africa’s transformation through innovation, policy reforms, and strategic economic growth — with a special focus on Nigeria’s evolving role.
The high-level summit will be held from October 21–22, 2025 at The Peninsula, London, under the theme “Africa in a Changing World.”
According to the FT, this year’s agenda will spotlight Africa’s anticipated transition to renewable energy, rapid industrial expansion, and the growing influence of youth-led entrepreneurship in driving sustainable and inclusive development. The summit will also examine Africa’s position in an era marked by geopolitical uncertainty, shifting trade patterns, and accelerated technological change.
Nigeria — Africa’s largest economy — will be at the heart of discussions on policy reforms, energy transition, and the future of fintech, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital infrastructure. Experts note that Nigeria’s bold moves in removing fuel subsidies, reforming foreign exchange policies, and promoting renewable energy investments have opened new opportunities for domestic and foreign investors.
The conference will also delve into policy shifts in Angola and South Africa, providing comparative insights into how Africa’s largest economies are addressing structural challenges.
Confirmed Speakers and Thought Leaders
The event will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including:
Mahmoud Youssouf, Chairperson, African Union Commission
Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, South Africa
Dr David Sengeh, Chief Minister & Chief Innovation Officer, Government of Sierra Leone
Vera Daves de Sousa, Minister of Finance, Angola
Mohamed Mansour, Chairman, Infinity Power
Mike Sangster, Senior Vice President Africa, TotalEnergies
These leaders will share perspectives on energy, trade, diplomacy, digital transformation, and climate resilience.
Strategic Discussions for a Shifting World
FT Africa Editor David Pilling described the summit as a vital platform to rethink Africa’s role in a rapidly changing global economy.
“This year’s agenda brings together leaders and innovators to explore how African nations are approaching diplomacy, digital growth, and development priorities in bold new ways,” Pilling said.
FT Foreign Editor Alec Russell highlighted the significance of the event in a year when South Africa will host the G20 Summit in November, marking Africa’s increased prominence in global governance.
“The FT Africa Summit provides a forum for candid dialogue on Africa’s geopolitical challenges, and fresh thinking on how to attract the investment and innovation needed for sustainable growth,” Russell added.
Over the years, the FT Africa Summit has evolved into one of the most influential platforms connecting Africa with the global investment community. This year, attendees will have direct access to investors, development institutions, and technology leaders shaping Africa’s economic narrative.
Key panel discussions will explore:
Africa’s Renewable Energy Transition – Opportunities for investment in solar, wind, and hydro power.
AI, Fintech & Digital Infrastructure – Scaling digital innovation for inclusive growth.
Trade and Geopolitics – Africa’s positioning in new global supply chains.
Industrialisation & Manufacturing – Building resilient industries for the future.
With Africa’s population projected to surpass 2.5 billion by 2050, the continent’s economic trajectory will have far-reaching implications for global trade, energy, and innovation. Nigeria’s youthful population, entrepreneurial energy, and resource base place it in a pivotal position to lead this transformation — but only if governance reforms and infrastructure investments keep pace with growth.
Business analysts suggest that the outcomes of this summit could shape investment flows and strategic partnerships over the next decade, particularly in renewable energy, technology, and sustainable manufacturing. The conversations in London will be closely watched by policymakers in Abuja, Johannesburg, Nairobi, and beyond.
As the FT Africa Summit 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on how African nations — especially Nigeria — plan to harness innovation, attract investment, and secure a competitive edge in a world defined by disruption and opportunity.