Over 350 founders, investors, tech professionals, and creatives gathered at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham on Saturday, July 13, 2025, for the second edition of Connect X Ignite (CXI) 2025, hosted by TN Naija and proudly headlined by Moniepoint.
This year’s theme, “Creating Prosperity Across Borders: Building With and For the Diaspora,” brought to life bold conversations about cross-continental collaboration, economic empowerment, and the future of African innovation across the globe.
A Stage Full of Powerhouses
From powerful keynote moments by Bolaji Sofoluwe MBE (Founder, ETK Group) to practical gems shared by Jof Walters (No-code Pioneer) and Dr Caroline Chibelushi (Innovate UK Business Connect), the event delivered a day rich in substance and energy.
Other featured speakers included:
- Davies Okeowo – Managing Partner, Enterprise Hill
- Zina Alfa – Head of Content & Startup Lead, Colorintech
- Fola Olatunji-David – Technical Advisor to DG/CEO, NIMC
- Oyinkan Adebayo – CEO, Niyo Group
- And 10+ more speakers across investing, policy, tech, and media.
Speaker highlights ranged from Bolaji Sofoluwe’s rallying charge to “Never leave your continent behind” to Dr. Caroline’s reminder that “It’s not about talent, it’s about coordination.”
A Community on Fire
More than just a conference, CXI felt like a celebration of community — complete with music, games, food, and hugs between people meeting for the first time IRL.
Attendees soaked in every minute:
“My dear TN connect x ignite organizers… you guysssssssssssss 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼🤩🤩 you outdid yourselves.” — Oyin O.
“Big shout out to everyone who made the ConnectXIgnite event happen, I had a great time!” — Esther O.
“Alright, so for #TNNaija CXI Yesterday, it was awesome!” — Kelvin B.
Reflections & Forward Motion
Participants appreciated the venue, speaker lineup, and networking opportunities. One callout for next year: “Give more time for breakout sessions!”
While no major announcements were made, TN Naija confirmed that more initiatives are coming, and the next edition of Connect X Ignite is slated for July 2026.
Stay Plugged In
- Follow @TNNaija on all platforms
- Check out highlights from the event
- Are you a recipient of the UK Global Talent Visa? Apply to join the TN Naija community
