By Etop Ekanem

The fifth edition of Atinuda, Africa’s leading platform for creativity, sustainability and innovation, has reaffirmed its growing influence as a catalyst for transformation across the continent’s creative economy. 

Held at The Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, the summit themed “From Local to Global: Creative Transformations” brought together over 75 speakers and hundreds of participants from Africa and the diaspora.

Founder of Atinuda, Mrs. Ayiri Oladunmoye, said the event continues to challenge Africa’s creative industry to innovate and set higher standards, adding: “Each year, we push our community to dream bigger, innovate boldly, and elevate the standards of excellence.”

Key speakers included Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, who reaffirmed government support for the creative sector; Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, represented by Mrs. Adebukola Agbaminoja, Executive Secretary/CEO, Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board who highlighted the industry’s economic potential; and Alexander Amosu, luxury entrepreneur and founder of Lux Afrique, who spoke on redefining African luxury. 

Other notable contributors were Dr. Adedolapo Adekunle, Diann Valentine, Nnamdi Ekeh of Konga, Lincoln Alexander of Flour House Cakes & Co. and Charles Odii, Director-General of SMEDAN.

One of the summit’s highlights was the Atinuda Pitch Competition, where Mr. Yakubu of Yaz Laundry & Cleaning Services emerged winner, receiving a Nord Motion electric car. Okala Charles (PYN) and Splendourart Republic (Splendour) received the inaugural Kwende & Akwasi Creative Transformation Grants of $7,000 and $3,000, sponsored by Dr. M. Kwende. The competition reinforced Atinuda’s role in nurturing homegrown innovation and rewarding outstanding entrepreneurial talent.

Two of the most inspiring sessions were delivered by Lincoln Alexander and Alexander Amosu, who shared powerful insights on resilience, creativity, and global competitiveness. Alexander emphasized discipline and authenticity as keys to success, while Amosu challenged creators to think globally and build enduring African brands.

A major talking point at the summit was the panel discussion on Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a disruptive tool in the creative industry, where experts from design, media, and technology explored how AI is transforming creative processes while underscoring the enduring importance of human imagination and originality.

The three-day summit also featured the AZIZI by Atinuda Cocktail at The Library and the Golden Sahara Gala Dinner, celebrating African craftsmanship with performances by IB Quake, ICE, DJ Big Ben, and Dope Caesar. Workshops and masterclasses led by Diann Valentine, Alexander Amosu, Lincoln Alexander, and Kelechi Amadi-Obi offered practical guidance on storytelling, brand building, and scaling creativity into profitable ventures.

Now in its fifth year, Atinuda continues to grow as more than a conference – a movement shaping Africa’s creative identity, connecting local innovators to global opportunities, and reaffirming Nigeria’s position as the hub of Africa’s creative renaissance.