The Africa-Israel Initiative has announced plans to host a Global Economic Summit in Abuja from November 17 to 19, 2026, with participants from more than 40 countries expected to explore business opportunities, investment prospects and stronger economic ties between Africa and Israel.
The Country Director of the Africa-Israel Initiative Nigeria, Bishop Sally William-Chinebu, disclosed this while outlining the organisation’s activities and its plans for the forthcoming summit.
According to her, delegates are expected to arrive in Abuja on November 16 ahead of the three-day event, which will feature international speakers, business exhibitions, networking sessions and an awards ceremony scheduled for November 19.
William-Chinebu said the summit would bring together business leaders, investors, government representatives, faith leaders and other stakeholders to identify areas of mutual interest and develop partnerships capable of generating economic opportunities.
“This is not a political event. We are doing something completely outside politics. Our focus is on development, economic cooperation and creating opportunities for people across Africa and Israel,” she said.
She explained that the initiative sought to encourage collaboration beyond political differences, with emphasis on business development, investment and international engagement.
The summit is expected to attract participants from more than 40 countries, providing businesses and organisations with opportunities to showcase their products and services, establish international contacts and explore potential markets.
William-Chinebu disclosed that an exhibition pavilion would form part of the programme, enabling entrepreneurs and organisations to present their products, services and innovations to an international audience.
She encouraged business owners, corporate organisations and investors to participate, noting that the gathering could help them connect with prospective partners, customers and investors.
The programme will also feature discussions involving international speakers and an awards ceremony to recognise individuals and organisations whose contributions align with the initiative’s objectives.
William-Chinebu expressed optimism that the summit would strengthen economic relationships between African countries and Israel while opening up opportunities for business partnerships and cross-border cooperation.
The summit announcement comes as William-Chinebu reflects on her longstanding involvement in pro-Israel advocacy and her recent recognition by an organisation in Israel.
She said she had been informed of her selection for an honour recognising individuals who had demonstrated commitment to advocating for Israel. According to her, she was listed at number 33 among 50 individuals recognised under the programme.
She described the recognition as a privilege, attributing it to God’s grace rather than her personal efforts.
Tracing her involvement in pro-Israel activities, William-Chinebu said her journey began several years ago when she brought the World Likud movement to Nigeria. She recalled that the late Senator Tawar Umbi Wada served as chairman of the movement during that period.
She said the experience laid the foundation for her subsequent involvement in international advocacy and initiatives aimed at strengthening relations between Israel and other countries.
According to her, her engagement later led to her appointment as External Director of the Israel Alliance Foundation.
She also said the foundation gave rise to the Nigerian Parliamentary Israelite Caucus, which she identified as being chaired by a member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Amos Gwamna Magaji.
William-Chinebu said advocacy platforms and institutional relationships could provide opportunities for dialogue and cooperation between Israeli interests and African political and civic institutions.
Explaining her personal convictions, she said her commitment to Israel remained central to her identity.
“Israel is my birthplace home, while Nigeria is my country of birth. I am an Israeli by choice, and I am proud of who I am and where I am coming from,” she said.
She also called for an end to antisemitism and violence, expressing support for efforts to protect Israelis and promote peaceful coexistence.
William-Chinebu identified Rt. Hon. Eric Selle of Norway as the founder of the Africa-Israel Initiative. She said Bishop Joshua Mringe previously served as president before becoming President Emeritus, adding that the organisation was subsequently led by a Ghanaian president.
She also acknowledged the contributions of Bishop Dennis to the initiative’s international leadership and expansion.
The initiative seeks to strengthen relations between Africa and Israel through engagement involving businesses, faith communities, institutions and other stakeholders.
Its activities include international gatherings, networking and efforts to establish partnerships between African countries and Israel.
William-Chinebu urged Nigerians and other Africans, particularly entrepreneurs, investors, corporate organisations and faith leaders, to participate in the forthcoming summit.
She said the gathering would welcome participants regardless of their political affiliations, reiterating that its stated focus was economic development, business promotion and international cooperation.
The Global Economic Summit is scheduled to be held in Abuja from November 17 to 19, 2026, with arrivals expected on November 16. The organisers expect participants from more than 40 countries to attend.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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