“When we launched this conference five years ago, our vision was both simple and ambitious. We aimed to cultivate a space dedicated to open, honest, and forward-thinking dialogue about the realities of conducting business in Nigeria. Five years later, this mission remains steadfast at the core of our activities, and if anything, the need for such engagement has intensified.”
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These poignant remarks set a compelling tone for DBNC 2025, highlighting the vital necessity for businesses in Nigeria to not only endure but also adapt amid a landscape marked by both challenges and opportunities. Unaize’s words resonated deeply, embodying the collective sentiment of the event: while Nigeria’s business environment may be intricate, it is steeped in untapped potential, yearning to be realized through collaboration, resilience, and innovative thought.
A significant highlight of DBNC 2025 was the much-anticipated Business Pitch Competition, which showcased the ingenuity and tenacity of Nigeria’s emerging entrepreneurs. Four remarkable startups stepped into the spotlight:
- ULE HOME, which specializes in sustainable housing solutions;
- Agristi, which harnesses agri-fintech to empower farmers;
- ALLIES, dedicated to enhancing growth in the informal sector through digital tools;
- QIQI Farms, a data-driven agricultural venture addressing food insecurity.
Each of these innovative ideas was pitched before a panel of distinguished judges: Ms. Stella Duru (Board Chairman, Zedcrest and Partner at Banwo & Ighodalo), Njideka Jack (Senior Manager at MTN Nigeria), and Dr. Ayo Adegboye (CEO of Arravo).
After a thrilling session filled with creativity and inspiration, QIQI Farms emerged as the winner. Their groundbreaking approach to improving rural market access and food distribution through logistical innovation and real-time data analytics captured the attention of the judges. Alongside securing a financial grant, QIQI Farms was granted invaluable access to personalized mentorship, strategic partnerships, and essential growth resources.
The Business Pitch Competition served as a powerful reminder that innovation can flourish even in turbulent times. By nurturing these entrepreneurs, DBNC is cultivating an ecosystem where transformative ideas can take root and grow into tangible impacts. More than mere financial support, the competition provided a robust network designed to sustain the development of emerging businesses over the long term.
Networking played an integral role at DBNC 2025, creating a fertile ground for participants to engage in meaningful conversations, forge new partnerships, and explore strategies for growth. These networking sessions underscored the essence of collaboration within Nigeria’s business landscape. Entrepreneurs, from aspiring founders to seasoned executives, engaged in dialogues that laid the groundwork for partnerships poised to yield real business outcomes.
The event also featured a series of dynamic panel discussions, keynote speeches, and expert-led sessions from some of Nigeria’s most influential leaders, including Tonye Cole, Fola Aiyesimoju, Paul Onwuanibe, JoEllen Gorg, and Iyinoluwa Aboyeji. These sessions tackled critical issues including securing funding, navigating regulatory changes, and embracing digital transformation. Attendees found themselves engrossed in discussions about how businesses can remain agile, adapt to market fluctuations, and thrive in an ever-evolving environment.
The energy at DBNC 2025 was undeniably contagious, leaving attendees not only with fresh knowledge but also with actionable insights, enhanced networks, and a renewed sense of purpose. The unwavering support from DBNC’s sponsors, partners, and exhibitors played a pivotal role in the event’s success, shining a spotlight on our collective responsibility to drive change and foster growth within Nigeria’s business ecosystem.
As DBNC 2025 draws to a close, one thing is abundantly clear: this conference has achieved much more than simply uniting people. It has ignited new conversations, encouraged innovative ideas, and established lasting connections that will continue to influence the trajectory of business in Nigeria. The momentum generated during these sessions will undoubtedly energize the endeavors of Nigerian entrepreneurs, empowering them to not only navigate the future but to lead with unshakeable confidence and pioneering innovation.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
