Lagos to Host Open for Business 5.0 as Faith-Driven Entrepreneurs, Professionals Seek New Frontiers of Leadership
Business leaders, entrepreneurs, ministry figures and emerging professionals from across Africa are expected to converge on Lagos later this month as Hills Business Connections prepares to host the fifth edition of its flagship conference, Open for Business 5.0, themed “Crossing the Red Sea”.
The annual gathering, organised by Hills Business Connections, the business and leadership outreach arm of The Ecclesia Hills Church, is scheduled to hold on May 30 and 31, 2026, and is aimed at equipping participants with practical insights, strategic direction, and faith-based leadership principles for navigating today’s rapidly changing economic and social landscape.
Organisers described the conference as a platform designed to inspire transformational leadership and encourage participants to move beyond fear, uncertainty and stagnation into greater levels of impact, innovation and influence.
According to the organisers, the theme “Crossing the Red Sea” was inspired by the biblical account in Exodus 14 and reflects the realities faced by many entrepreneurs, professionals and leaders who must make difficult transitions while confronting economic pressures, institutional limitations and personal challenges.
They noted that the conference seeks to challenge attendees to embrace bold decision-making, renewed vision and courageous leadership in business, ministry, family life and nation-building.
“Crossing the Red Sea is about advancing despite obstacles and stepping into new possibilities with faith, clarity and determination,” the organisers stated. “We believe this year’s conference will empower people to rise above limitations and build meaningful impact within their industries, communities and spheres of influence.”
The two-day programme will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, networking engagements, worship sessions and collaborative conversations focused on enterprise development, leadership growth, innovation, transformational living and societal impact.
Participants are expected to engage in discussions covering business and entrepreneurship, professional and leadership development, ministry and service, family and relationships, personal transformation, and nation-building initiatives aimed at fostering positive change across society.
The opening session of the conference will take place on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at The Wheatbaker from 8:00 a.m., while the concluding session will hold on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel beginning at 9:00 a.m.
Although attendance is free, organisers said registration remains compulsory for all participants due to expected turnout and logistical arrangements.
A major highlight of the conference will be the participation of respected business executives, investment experts and leadership voices from different sectors of the economy.
Among the confirmed speakers is Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, Chairman and Co-Founder of African Capital Alliance, whose contributions to private equity, investment development and economic reform have earned recognition across Africa.
Also billed to speak at the conference is Kemi Ojenike, Managing Director of Meristem Family Office and Co-Founder of The Destiny Trust. She is expected to share insights on intentional leadership, family wealth management, communication and transformational living.
Another featured speaker is Nosa Igbinedion, Managing Director of Kingdom Equity Management and Group Managing Director of Gartmore Investment, who will bring his experience in enterprise leadership, investment management and international finance to discussions at the event.
The conference will also feature worship and music ministrations by Hills Music, alongside interactive networking opportunities designed to encourage strategic collaboration and relationship-building among participants from different industries and sectors.
Organisers further explained that Hills Business Connections continues to strengthen its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and professionals through initiatives such as the Hills Business Hub, which provides mentorship, leadership development, strategic partnerships, business support and access to collaborative networks.
They stressed that the organisation’s vision remains centred on raising leaders who embody faith, integrity, excellence and innovation while contributing meaningfully to economic development and social transformation.
This year’s edition of Open for Business is supported by strategic partners and sponsors including Aruwa Capital, Q21 and Digital Equity Africa.
Hills Business Connections stated that through its various programmes and initiatives, it seeks to build a community of ethical and purpose-driven leaders capable of influencing industries and societies through collaboration, innovation and sustainable impact.
