Political Dynamics and Global Realignment: Lessons for Nigerian CEOs

Nigerian Business Leaders Examine Political Uncertainty and Strategies for Resilient Growth

The changing global economy, political uncertainty and the need for businesses to prepare for unexpected challenges were among the major issues discussed at the sixth annual CEO Luncheon organised by the Franco-Nigerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) in partnership with KPMG Nigeria.

With Nigerian companies operating in an environment shaped by economic reforms, regulatory changes and international developments, the luncheon provided a platform for executives to reflect on how they can build more resilient organisations and sustain growth despite uncertainty.

Strengthening France-Nigeria Economic Relations

His remarks reinforced the role of international partnerships in supporting business development, particularly as companies navigate a global environment where cooperation, investment relationships and access to new opportunities remain important to long-term growth.

Tola Adeyemi Highlights the Need to Prepare for Uncertainty

The keynote address was delivered by Tola Adeyemi, CEO of KPMG One Africa, who examined how political developments, changes in global trade and economic reforms are affecting businesses.

Adeyemi stressed that business leaders must prepare for uncertainty rather than rely on a single expected outcome when making strategic decisions. Understanding different possible scenarios, assessing potential risks and remaining flexible can help organisations respond more effectively when economic or political conditions change.

Emphasising the importance of patience and a long-term outlook in Nigeria

The statement strengthened even further the need for businesses to look beyond immediate pressures and make decisions that support sustainable growth over time.

Adeyemi also discussed how conflicts in other parts of the world can affect Nigerian businesses, including through changes in prices, currency movements and supply chains. Such developments demonstrate how international events can have consequences for local operations, costs and business planning, even when the events occur outside Nigeria.

For business leaders, the challenge is therefore not simply to respond to immediate disruptions but to understand how external developments could affect their organisations and prepare accordingly.

NGX and Legal Perspectives Add to the Discussion

Other speakers at the luncheon included Jude Chiemeka, Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), and Dr Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, founding partner of Olisa Agbakoba Legal.

Their contributions formed part of the broader discussions on the economic conditions facing businesses and the importance of making informed decisions in an evolving operating environment.

The participation of leaders from the capital market and legal sectors also brought different professional perspectives to the conversation, reflecting the range of considerations that businesses must account for when assessing risks, navigating change and planning for the future.

Taxation, Regulation and Technology Remain Key Business Considerations

The luncheon also featured contributions from KPMG partners Aminat Jegede, Ajibola Olomola and Lawrence Amadi, as well as Jouni Loukman.

Discussions touched on several issues affecting organisations, including taxation, regulation, technology and the challenges of operating in an uncertain economic environment.

These areas are important to business resilience because changes in regulatory requirements, tax obligations and technology can influence how companies manage costs, allocate resources and compete. For executives, staying informed about developments in these areas can support more effective planning and help organisations prepare for changing operating conditions.

The discussions reinforced the need for business leaders to consider both external developments and internal capabilities when developing strategies for sustained growth.

Building Resilient Businesses in a Changing Global Economy

As political developments and international trade shifts continue to influence local markets, businesses need to remain attentive to emerging risks while identifying opportunities for long-term development.

For Nigerian CEOs and executives, resilience means looking beyond immediate challenges, evaluating different possible outcomes and making informed decisions that support the long-term health of their organisations.

The luncheon offered a timely platform for these conversations, bringing together perspectives from business, finance, law and international relations to examine how organisations can position themselves for sustainable growth amid uncertainty.

Conclusion

Political uncertainty and global realignment present challenges for businesses, but they also underline the importance of strategic leadership and long-term thinking. The 2026 FNCCI CEO Luncheon, organised in partnership with KPMG Nigeria, highlighted the need for Nigerian business leaders to anticipate change, understand the forces shaping their operating environment and prepare their organisations for different economic scenarios.

As Tola Adeyemi’s keynote message suggested, building a successful business in Nigeria requires a marathon mindset: patience, preparation and a commitment to sustainable growth rather than short-term gains alone.

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