Ali Baba, CEOs, AI Experts, Academia To Headline ‘The Encounter 2026’ in Lagos

As artificial intelligence continues to transform the global economy, education, business and the creative industry, young Africans are set to engage with leading voices in technology, education, media and business at THE ENCOUNTER 2026, holding on Friday, November 6, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.

Organised as a youth leadership and capacity-building symposium, the 2026 edition will hold under the theme “AI FOR GOOD: From Innovation to Impact”, bringing together over 200 young people from diverse backgrounds for conversations, learning, debate and engagement on the opportunities and responsibilities emerging from the advancement of artificial intelligence.

Convened by veteran broadcaster, Seun Oyedeji, ‘THE ENCOUNTER 2026 SYMPOSIUM’ seeks to equip young Africans with the knowledge, confidence, critical thinking abilities and exposure required to contribute meaningfully to society and the continent’s development.

The event will feature an impressive lineup of speakers and industry leaders, including Nigeria’s celebrated King of Comedy, entrepreneur and business strategist, Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome, popularly known as ‘Ali Baba’ who will speak on “AI and the Future of Africa’s Creative Economy.”

Other confirmed speakers include Dr. Olayinka Agunloye, Associate Professor at the University of Lagos, whose presentation, “AI Is Not the Future, It’s Your Assignment,” will challenge young people to recognise their responsibility in the evolving AI landscape.

Ayokunle Omoniyi, an expert in data monitoring and impact evaluation; and Oluwatayo Winkunle, technology executive and Founder/CEO of Techlytics, with experience in digital transformation, data intelligence and emerging technologies.

Dr. Sulaimon Olagoke Ogunmuyiwa, Director General, Education Quality Assurance, Lagos State, will bring an important education-sector perspective to discussions on technology and the future of learning while Engr. Ikechukwu Nnamani, Managing Director of Digital Realty, will also speak on the theme of the day.

Beyond the keynote conversations and panel discussions, the event will feature Inter-School Debate, The Mindset, The Encounter panel session and the Award Ceremony.

These activities are designed to encourage intellectual engagement, strengthen leadership and communication skills, celebrate young talent and expose participants to ideas and opportunities that can shape their future.

Building on the success of its previous edition, which featured student debates, prize presentations, brand engagements and enthusiastic feedback from participants, THE ENCOUNTER 2026 aims to deepen its impact by placing ‘Artificial Intelligence’ and its practical applications at the centre of conversations about Africa’s future.

With physical and virtual participation available, the symposium also provides an opportunity for a wider audience to be part of the conversations, regardless of location.

Speaking on the vision behind the initiative, Convener Seun Oyedeji emphasised the importance of creating platforms where young people can interact with experienced professionals, encounter new ideas and develop the capacity to become active contributors to national and continental development.

Members of the public, students, educators, professionals and technology enthusiasts are invited to participate.

Registration for physical and virtual attendance is available at www.theencounter.africa.