More than 10,000 young people converged on the Sports Centre of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) for the fifth edition of the Gen Z Involvement in a New Nigeria, popularly known as GiNN 5.0, in what organisers described as the largest gathering of Gen Z in Nigeria and Africa.
The youth-focused leadership, enterprise and empowerment event brought together young Nigerians from across the country for a historic convergence of ideas, mentorship, networking, creativity, civic engagement, entrepreneurship and national development.
Hosted by Javis and Alexis, GiNN 5.0 created a vibrant platform where thousands of young people engaged directly with business leaders, media executives, entrepreneurs, creatives, political voices, innovators and youth development advocates.
Speaking at the event, the convener and organiser, Agomeze Saint Chukwuemeka, popularly known as Saint of Africa, said GiNN 5.0 represented a defining moment for Nigeria’s youth population and a clear statement that young people are ready to take responsibility for the future of the country.
According to him, GiNN has grown from a simple idea into a national youth movement with continental relevance.
“GiNN has grown from an idea into a movement. What we witnessed at GiNN 5.0 proves that young Nigerians are no longer waiting to be handed the future. They are stepping forward to build it, lead it, finance it, innovate it and redefine the narrative of this country,” he said.
Saint Agomeze noted that the platform was created to move beyond motivational speeches by connecting young people to real opportunities, mentors, investors, brands, institutions and development partners capable of supporting their dreams.
He said the vision of Gen Z Involvement in a New Nigeria is to become the most influential youth development platform in Africa by giving young people access to knowledge, funding, visibility, recognition and strategic networks.
“GiNN is not just an event. GiNN is a movement for the young Nigerian who wants to build, lead, create and contribute. We are building a platform where young people are not only inspired, but also supported with the right structure, access and opportunities to turn their ideas into sustainable impact,” he added.
The fifth edition featured keynote sessions, panel conversations and special appearances from leading voices across business, media, entertainment, politics, entrepreneurship and civic leadership.
Speakers and special guests included Kola Adesina of Sahara Group, Ayo Animashaun, founder of The Headies Awards, Bunmi Davies, Gbenga Obadina, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, Ezekiel Adamu, Evans Jakpa-Johns, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim and Jamiu Badmus.
The speakers addressed participants on leadership, resilience, enterprise, creativity, innovation, media, governance, youth participation and the role of Gen Z in driving national transformation.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the GiNN Young Excellence Awards, an award category created to recognise exceptional young individuals making significant contributions in Nigeria and beyond.
Recipients of the 2026 GiNN Young Excellence Awards included Oladapo Abdul-Hammed Anjolaiya, Muhammad Sheriff, Kemi Ikuseedun, Destiny Osarewinda, Eric Gugua, Amadou Elizabeth Aminata, Enioluwa Adeoluwa, Seyi Ademoso, Jagbojo Oveze Godwin, Biodun Adedire, Zainab Alayande and Tochi Ifeanyi.
The organisers said the award was designed to celebrate young Nigerians who are demonstrating excellence, courage, creativity, discipline and impact across various sectors including entrepreneurship, entertainment, digital media, innovation, social impact, leadership and professional excellence.
Beyond the awards, GiNN 5.0 also announced major empowerment commitments, including more than ₦30 million in seed funding pledged by speakers and partners to support promising business ideas and young entrepreneurs. According to the organisers, selected beneficiaries will be monitored through the GiNN Innovation Hub to ensure that the support translates into measurable growth, business development and long-term impact.
Plots of land were also presented to selected participants as part of the event’s practical empowerment structure, further reinforcing GiNN’s commitment to providing young people with resources that go beyond inspiration.
Saint Agomeze said the seed funding and land presentations were deliberate steps to show that youth empowerment must move from words to practical action.
“We cannot continue to gather young people only to motivate them and send them back empty-handed. Inspiration is important, but access is more important. Funding is important. Mentorship is important. Platforms are important. GiNN exists to create that bridge between young people and the opportunities they need to build,” he said.
GiNN 5.0 received support from several corporate organisations and partners including Minimie, Metropolitan Electric, Cleaques, Airtel, Zenith Bank, Golden Penny, Ecobank, Declan Wine, Addme and Adbond Homes.
