Abuja, Nigeria – April 22, 2025 – Nigeria is set to witness a landmark event in the evolution of its sports industry as the inaugural Sports Meet Nigeria Conference convenes on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the prestigious Cubana Hotel, Jabi, Abuja. This high-impact professional gathering is designed to foster collaboration among stakeholders across the sports value chain, including sports business professionals, investors, marketers, broadcasters, media and PR experts, sports and social entrepreneurs, administrators, and thought leaders from allied industries.
Organized by Akeola Lukumanu Ayinde, a veteran Sports Business Advisor, FIFA Players’ and Match Agent, and renowned Boxing Promoter & Matchmaker, the conference is powered by ESEM-GROUP, a leading agency in sports talent management and tourism development. The event aims to unlock the commercial and developmental potential of sports in Nigeria, positioning it as a tool for economic diversification, job creation, and social empowerment.
“Sports Meet Nigeria is where ideas meet action,” said Akeola Lukumanu Ayinde, CEO of ESEM-GROUP. “This conference is a platform for bold conversations and strategic initiatives that can revolutionize Nigeria’s sports landscape. We must evolve from mere participation to structured investment and sustainable growth.”
Conference Highlights
The one-day conference will feature a rich lineup of keynote presentations, panel discussions, networking sessions, exhibition showcases, and deal-making opportunities, focusing on:
- Strategic investment in sports infrastructure and talent
- Sports as a tool for economic growth and social transformation
- Media, branding, and innovation in sports
- Cross-sectoral partnerships and sponsorship models
- Emerging sports startups and tech integration
Book Launch: Beyond the Game – Unveiling the Potential of Sports in Nigeria
A major highlight of the event will be the launch of the new book by Akeola Lukumanu Ayinde titled “Beyond the Game – Unveiling The Potential of Sports in Nigeria.” The book presents a powerful blueprint for harnessing the untapped opportunities within the Nigerian sports ecosystem.
“Beyond the Game is more than a book—it’s a call to action,” said Ayinde. “It challenges policymakers, investors, and practitioners to look beyond medals and matches and see sports as a robust industry capable of driving national transformation.”
Voices from the Organizers
Ms. Halima Imam, Event Director, emphasized the groundbreaking nature of the initiative:
“This conference is a first-of-its-kind platform where sports professionals and industry leaders from other sectors will engage in solutions-driven conversations. We’re creating an environment for meaningful partnerships that will drive innovation and sustainable development in Nigerian sports.”
Musa Sunusi Ahmad, Creative Director of the conference, added:
“The creative and business sides of sports must work hand-in-hand to elevate Nigeria’s global sports standing. Sports Meet Nigeria blends engaging experiences with insightful discourse, ensuring every participant leaves inspired and equipped to make a lasting impact.”
Additional Features
- Networking & Deal-Making Sessions: Structured to facilitate connections, investment opportunities, and business collaborations.
- Exhibition & Showcase: Highlighting innovative sports startups, emerging talent, and brands reshaping the sports industry.
About ESEM-GROUP
Elite Sports and Tourism Development Limited (ESEM-GROUP) is a distinguished sports talent management and tourism development agency. With a mission to foster excellence through strategic partnerships, talent development, and investment facilitation, ESEM-GROUP continues to be a trailblazer in redefining the African sports business narrative.
For media inquiries, sponsorship, participation, or exhibition space, visit www.SportsMeetNigeria.com or contact the organizing team via email or phone.
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