DTN@100: Okosi, Jideonwo, Microsoft’s Williams to lead national conversation on Nigeria’s future

Leading technology, media and entrepreneurship experts are set to examine Nigeria’s global image, economic prospects and development challenges at the DTN@100 Town Hall and National Conversation scheduled for Tuesday, November 3, 2026, in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The national conversation, themed “Shaping the Future,” will explore how Nigeria can reposition itself at the centre of global socio-economic development, overcome negative international perceptions and project its achievements and potential to the world.

Among the speakers expected to dissect the issues and proffer recommendations are Alex Okosi, Managing Director of Google Africa; Jude Jideonwo, Co-founder of Red For Africa; Olutomiwa Williams, Chief Growth and AI Officer for the Middle East and Africa at Microsoft; and Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Nigerian technology entrepreneur and investor.

The discussions will focus on Nigeria’s entrepreneurial spirit, which continues to resonate across technology, business, sports, music, entertainment and the creative industries, despite persistent challenges surrounding the country’s international reputation.

Okosi, a media, entertainment and technology executive with more than two decades of experience, is expected to bring his industry insights to the conversation, while Jideonwo, a lawyer, journalist and media entrepreneur, will contribute perspectives on leadership, communications and nation-building.

Williams, a technology executive with over 20 years of experience in information technology, digital transformation and business leadership, will address the role of technology and innovation in shaping Nigeria’s future.

Aboyeji, recognised for co-founding Andela and Flutterwave, is expected to provide insights into entrepreneurship, investment and the opportunities available to Nigerian innovators in the global economy.

The organisers said the Town Hall and National Conversation was designed to deepen discourse on Nigeria’s achievements, celebrate individuals driving change and develop strategies for improving the country’s global perception.

The event is the second in a series of activities marking the centenary celebration of The Daily Times, tagged DTN@100.

Other components of the celebration include the Honouring the Past Exhibition, which will showcase distinguished Nigerians whose contributions helped shape the country’s history, and the DTN@100 Times Heroes Awards, designed to recognise individuals making significant contributions to Nigeria through leadership, patriotism and service to humanity.

The exhibition will draw from the archives of The Daily Times, documenting Nigeria’s historical journey and the contributions of prominent individuals over the newspaper’s 100 years of service.

The event will be co-chaired by Aremo Olusegun Osoba, former governor of Ogun State; Sam Amuka-Pemu, publisher of Vanguard Newspapers; and Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi, Executive Chairman of Tanus Communications.

The inaugural DTN@100 Times Heroes Awards was held in Abuja on September 3, 2026, under the theme “Honouring the Past, Shaping the Future.”

As part of the centenary initiative, Folio Group, owners of The Daily Times, has also dedicated the newspaper’s archives to the development of The Nigerian Grand Book (Magnum Opus), a 700-page national souvenir aimed at telling Nigeria’s story to the international community.

The publication is envisioned as a flagship historical resource that documents Nigeria’s evolution, achievements and defining moments while serving as a tool for reshaping perceptions of the country globally.

The initiative forms part of activities marking the centenary year running from June 1, 2026, to June 1, 2027, during which the organisers aim to honour 100 of the most impactful Nigerians, past and present, through the Times Heroes Awards.

According to Fidelis Anosike, Chairman of Folio Africa and Publisher of The Daily Times, the centenary initiative reflects a commitment to positively communicating Nigeria’s story, celebrating its heroes and inspiring a new generation of nation-builders.