UNFPA, Seplat Energy, IHS Towers, Coca-Cola, Sterling Bank Lead Push for Africa’s Development at ASIS 2026

As Africa intensifies efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), IHS Towers, Seplat Energy Plc,

Coca-Cola, Sterling Bank, and other key partners are leading the charge for transformative development through the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS) 2026.
Taking place from July 22–24, 2026, at the Eko Convention Centre, Lagos, the Summit will convene leaders, investors, policymakers, and changemakers from across Africa and beyond to catalyse action, mobilise investments, and advance innovative solutions that drive inclusive growth and lasting impact across the continent.

More than a gathering, the Africa Social Impact Summit represents a powerful coalition of leaders, investors, development institutions, businesses, policymakers, and changemakers committed to turning bold ideas into measurable impact. Through strategic partnerships, innovative financing, policy dialogue, and collaborative action, the Summit continues to serve as a catalyst for advancing sustainable development across Africa.

At a time when the continent faces urgent challenges ranging from climate vulnerability and unemployment to healthcare access, education gaps, and economic inclusion, the
commitment of these leading organizations underscores a shared belief that Africa’s future will be shaped by collective action and purpose-driven partnerships.

Speaking on UNFPA’s participation, Muriel Mafico, Resident Representative, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Nigeria, said: “Driving meaningful progress toward the SustainablebDevelopment Goals requires strong partnerships and continuous investment in peoplespecially women and youth. At the Africa Social Impact Summit, we are uniting governments, the private sector, development partners, and communities to foster innovative and inclusive solutions. This aligns with UNFPA’s focus on timely, scalable, and sustainable healthcare initiatives that aim to enhance lives, build resilience, and ensure no one is left behind on Africa’s path to a prosperous future.”

Commenting on Seplat Energy’s partnership, Roger Thompson Brown, Chief Executive Officer of Seplat Energy Plc, said: “At Seplat Energy, we recognise that education and youth empowerment are fundamental to Africa’s sustainable development.

Partnering with the Africa Social Impact Summit provides a platform to contribute meaningfully to solutions that equip young people with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.”

Speaking on Sterling Bank’s commitment to advancing sustainable development, Abubakar Suleiman, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Bank, said: “The future of Africa depends on our ability to build systems that create opportunity, strengthen resilience, and improve lives at scale. Through our partnership with ASIS, we are supporting meaningful conversations and practical solutions that drive inclusive growth and deliver lasting value to communities across the continent.”

Also speaking on the significance of the Summit, Olapeju Ibekwe, Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, said: “The Sustainable Development Goals cannot be achieved by any one institution alone. ASIS was created to bring together the right voices, resources, and partnerships needed to accelerate progress across Africa. Every year, the Summit demonstrates the power of collaboration in transforming challenges into opportunities and commitments into measurable impact.”

With a growing reputation as Africa’s leading platform for sustainable development dialogue and action, ASIS 2026 under the theme: “Financing for Development: Building Resilience and Transforming Emerging Economies.” will convene global and African leaders to explore solutions around climate action, education, healthcare, food systems, youth empowerment, gender equality, financial inclusion, impact investing, and economic resilience.

As the countdown to the Summit begins, the participation of Afreximbank, Seplat Energy, Coca-Cola, Sterling Bank, and other key partners sends a powerful message: achieving Africa’s development ambitions will require bold leadership, strategic partnerships, and sustained investment in scalable solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities
across the continent.

Registration and participation details are available via www.theimpactsummit.org