By Ayonitemi Kareem
A global stage is set at Mansion House, London, as Hon. Dapo Okubadejo, the Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser to the Ogun State Government, prepares to join world leaders for the 2026 Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit (CTIS) on 20–21 April 2026.
Representing one of Africa’s fastest-growing industrial hubs, Okubadejo will bring his expertise in fiscal reform and infrastructure finance to a forum that connects 56 nations and 2.7 billion people.
A former KPMG Equity Partner and Africa Head of Deal Advisory, Okubadejo’s career has been defined by bridging the gap between emerging markets and international capital.
His journey from leading KPMG’s private equity teams to orchestrating the economic transformation of Nigeria’s “Gateway State” has made him a sought-after voice in global policy. At CTIS 2026, he stands as a testament to the power of technocratic leadership in driving sustainable development across the Commonwealth.
The highlight of his participation will be a high-level plenary session on April 21st titled “Balancing Energy Security and Decarbonisation.” In a world grappling with climate imperatives, Okubadejo will address the critical challenge of transitioning to green energy while maintaining the industrial momentum necessary for economic resilience.
His insights will draw from his experience managing major World Bank and African Development Bank-funded initiatives that have reshaped Ogun State’s infrastructure.
Beyond the formal panels, the summit serves as a high-stakes arena for economic diplomacy. Okubadejo is expected to engage in strategic roundtables with sovereign wealth funds and institutional investors, pitching the immense potential of Nigeria’s Special Economic Zones.
His mission is to ensure that global technological advancements and responsible capital find viable, bankable homes in local projects that can drive prosperity across West Africa.
He will be joined by a distinguished Nigerian delegation, including Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment. Together, they represent a unified regional economic front, showcasing the stability and investment-readiness of Nigeria’s most vibrant commercial corridor.
This collaboration highlights a shared vision of a modern, Commonwealth-aligned Nigerian economy where state-level successes serve as engines for national growth.
As the summit concludes, the partnerships forged in London are expected to cement Ogun State’s position as a global investment hub. By securing commitments for sustainable infrastructure and industrial innovation, Okubadejo is not just participating in a dialogue—he is actively shaping the future of international trade.
His presence in London marks another milestone in a career dedicated to ensuring that Nigerian economic potential is both globally recognized and locally impactful.
