https://www.ardenstudents.org/events/0/https://www.ardenstudents.org/ents/event/200/https://www.ardenstudents.org/ents/event/200/<img src="https://www.ardenstudents.org/asset/Event/6013/Nigerian-Independence-Event-Oct-2026.png?thumbnail_width=100&thumbnail_height=100&resize_type=ResizeFitAllFill" alt="" style="float:left;width:100;height:100;" /><h2><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><strong><span style="background-color: rgb(250, 197, 28);">LOG IN TO BUY YOUR TICKET TO REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT</span></strong></span></h2><h2><br /></h2><h2><span style="font-size: 30px;">More than an Independence Day Celebration</span></h2><p>Join us as we celebrate Nigeria&#39;s 66th Independence Anniversary through an afternoon of leadership, opportunity, inspiration and meaningful connections.</p><p>Hosted by <strong>Your Students&#39; Association</strong>, with the support of Arden University, this special Summit bring together students, graduates, alumni and professionals from business, entrepreneurship, government, diplomacy and public life.</p><p>At its heart, the Summit is about creating access to people, perspectives, networks and opportunities that can help shape your future.</p><p>Whether you are Nigerian, part of the wider African and diaspora community, or simply interested in leadership, professional development and building connections, you are warmly welcome.</p><h2><span style="font-size: 24px;">Why attend?</span></h2><p>You&#39;ll have the opportunity to:</p><ul><li>Meet leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals from a range of industries</li><li>Hear real stories of leadership, career progression and entrepreneurship</li><li>Gain practical insights and advice from experienced professionals</li><li>Explore career, mentoring, business and networking opportunities</li><li>Build meaningful connections with students, graduates and industry leaders</li><li>Celebrate Nigerian Independence and the achievements of Nigerians around the world</li></ul><p>Unlike large conferences, this Summit is designed to be intentionally interactive, creating space for genuine conversations, questions and connections.</p><h2><span style="font-size: 30px;">Speakers and Contributors</span></h2><p><span style="font-size: 14px;">Nilhan Onal G&ouml;k&ccedil;etekin (CEO, Arden University)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: 14px;">Councillor Shantu Ferdous (Deputy Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Communities, London Borough of Newham)<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 14px;">Mary Edoro (Chief of Staff and Head of Strategy, BellaNaija)<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Additional speakers and contributors will be announced soon.</strong></span></p><h2><span style="font-size: 30px;">Programme</span></h2><table style="width: 50%; height: 100px; margin: auto;"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>12:00 pm</td><td>Arrival and Networking</td></tr><tr><td>12:30 pm</td><td>Welcome and Opening Remarks</td></tr><tr><td>12:45 pm</td><td>Headline Contributions</td></tr><tr><td>1:30 pm</td><td>Leadership and Opportunities Conversation</td></tr><tr><td>2:30 pm</td><td>Networking and Refreshments</td></tr><tr><td>3:00 pm</td><td>Opportunities and Connections</td></tr><tr><td>4:00 pm</td><td>Nigerian Independence Celebration and Closing Remarks</td></tr><tr><td>4:30 pm</td><td>Event Ends</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p><em>Programme timings may be adjusted as final contributors are confirmed</em></p><h2 data-pasted="true">Registration</h2><p>Places are limited and must be booked in advance by purchasing a free ticket from this page.</p><p>To ensure as many students and graduates as possible can benefit from this opportunity, please only register if you intend to attend.</p><h2 data-pasted="true">Venue</h2><p><strong>Lounge TwentyOne, Level 21</strong></p><p>The Turing Building, 3 Westfield Avenue, Stratford, London, E20 1HZ.<br />What Three Words: ///windy.hike.stored</p><h2 data-pasted="true">Arrival Information</h2><p>Please note that access is not through the usual Arden University campus entrance.</p><p>Use the main entrance to The Turing Building and report to reception on arrival. You will be directed to the Summit registration area.</p><p>Further arrival and check-in information will be shared with registered attendees before the event.</p><p>If you have any accessibility requirements, please let us know in advance so we can support your attendance.</p><h2 data-pasted="true">Food &amp; Refreshments</h2><p>Food and refreshments will be provided throughout the event, including the opportunity to experience a taste of Nigerian cuisine as part of the Independence Day celebration.</p><h2 data-pasted="true">Connect. Contribute. Inspire</h2><p>The Nigerian Independence Leadership and Opportunities Summit 2026 is more than a celebration. It&#39;s an opportunity to build connections, discover new perspectives and be inspired by leaders and professionals creating impact across industries and communities.</p>Mon, 07 Sep 2026 11:50:48 +01002026-09-11T17:13:36+01:00