A major outcome of the summit was the commitment to creating a resource allocation framework aimed at improving healthcare across the continent. As the largest hybrid gathering of leaders in the African development sphere, ASIS 2024 underscored the private sector’s vital role in fostering innovative and sustainable solutions for Africa’s future.

The event began with a keynote address by United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, who highlighted the need for sustainable growth that includes climate resilience, leveraging technology, and private sector innovations. “Recommit to the 2030 agenda with a focus on inclusivity, impact, and inspiration,” Mohammed urged the attendees.

Government officials, business executives, and development experts were among the diverse participants. Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of The Sterling One Foundation, stressed the necessity of collaboration, stating, “No single entity can address the multifaceted challenges we face. Through partnerships, we can harness diverse expertise and resources to tackle issues ranging from healthcare to climate resilience.”

An Investor Roundtable, organized by the Lagos State Government in collaboration with various organizations, opened the summit. Lagos State Executive Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s presence highlighted the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for sustainable development.

Throughout the summit, the private sector’s indispensable role in Africa’s future growth was a recurring theme. Abubakar Suleiman, CEO of Sterling Bank, emphasized the importance of creating a market for social impact that ensures information, trust, and efficient resource allocation.

Deputy Governor of Lagos State Obafemi Hamzat presented the “THEMES PLUS” initiative, promoting development in critical sectors. “ASIS 2024 must serve as a catalyst for collaboration and action,” Hamzat declared, underscoring the importance of public-private partnerships.

Jumoke Oduwole, representing Vice President Kashim Shettima, called for a shift in economic thinking. “It is time for action; we must move beyond rhetoric and focus on solutions with tangible impact,” she asserted. “Africa can lead the way in a new model that balances prosperity, the environment, and equity.”

A significant highlight was the “Bold Actions Meeting” on the second day, where fifteen commissioners of health from various Nigerian states convened to address healthcare challenges. Zouera Yousouffou, CEO of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, highlighted the need for a shift from diagnosis to intervention, stating, “Africa does not have the necessary resources or organizational framework to address health-related problems.”

ABC Health CEO Mories Atoki identified the politicization of partnerships as a major barrier, while Dr. Tayo Aduloju, CEO of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, stressed the importance of delivering tangible outcomes over empty promises.

The summit also addressed the integration of displaced persons into the workforce. A panel led by H.E. Mrs. Toyin Saraki, founder of Wellbeing Foundation Africa, discussed strategies for the economic empowerment of this vulnerable population, with insights from UNHCR representatives and refugees.

Professor Akin Abayomi, Lagos State Commissioner of Health, emphasized the importance of moral leadership and education, noting, “Leaders don’t just happen; they are made through education and training.”

ASIS 2024 facilitated the formation of new partnerships aimed at tackling healthcare, climate resilience, and economic empowerment. Attendees committed to actionable plans, including the development of a resource allocation framework and initiatives to integrate displaced persons into the workforce.

By bringing together top leaders from diverse sectors, ASIS 2024 underscored a collaborative approach to sustainable development. The active participation of high-level officials and experts, along with the tangible commitments made, reinforces the credibility and impact of the summit.