Speakers and governance experts at the ninth edition of the Drive Leadership Summit 2026 have charged Nigerian youths to prioritize personal growth, time management, and technology adoption as vital drivers for achieving sustainable socio-economic progress.
The summit, organized under the theme “Beyond Conversation: Taking Action, Embrace Technology,” was held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at the Ilorin Innovation Hub on Ahmadu Bello Way, GRA, Ilorin.
Delivering a keynote address titled “The Drive Leadership Network: Navigating Time, Environment and Personal Growth,” finance professional Mr. Makanjuola Seun Thomas emphasized that effective leadership requires intentional self-improvement, environmental awareness, and rigorous time management in an increasingly competitive, technology-driven global landscape.
Reiterating the core mandate of the gathering, the Convener of the Drive Leadership Summit, Mr. Maxwell David Taiye, urged participants to transition from high-level conversations to practical implementation in their respective communities and professional callings.
“We must move beyond mere conversations and take concrete steps towards achieving our personal and professional goals,” Maxwell stated.
“Technology must be leveraged actively as a primary tool for driving local innovation, improving productivity, and fostering sustainable community development.”
The Convener revealed that out of approximately 1,000 applications received for the 2026 edition, 400 participants were selected to attend the intensive capacity-building sessions in person.
The event was attended by prominent political figures, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Ekiti/Irepodun/Isin/Oke-Ero Federal Constituency in Kwara State, Hon. Olasumbo Florence Oyeyemi, alongside emerging entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and community leaders from across Kwara State.