African businesses can lead globally by embracing innovation rooted in our unique strengths — Lawal

Kamil Lawal is into higher education and strategic policy advocacy, with a background in student representation and educational innovation. Co-founder of the university’s AI Conference, he is passionate about diversity and has trained individuals on cultural agility and inclusive practices. In this interview with REMI FEYISIPO, he spoke about how to thrive in business and career through innovation and resilience, among other issues. Excerpts:

How can African business owners leverage innovation to compete favourably with their Western peers in the corporate world?

African business owners can lead globally by embracing innovation rooted in our unique strengths. When we merge technology with local insight, we create solutions the world has not seen. Our resilience, creativity, and cultural intelligence are powerful assets. Innovation allows Africa not just to compete but to redefine excellence on our own terms.

Money can solve money problems, but not purpose problems. What helped you solve your life’s purpose problems when money could not solve them?

Purpose came to me through reflection, faith, and service. When money could not answer my deepest questions, impact did. Giving myself to people, leading with empathy, and staying aligned with my values helped me find clarity. Purpose is discovered when you choose meaning over comfort and transformation over convenience.

You were recently awarded The Iconic Brand Africa (TIBA) Award. How does the honour reflect what you do as a career professional?

I received the Trailblazer Leadership Award. This honour reflects my commitment to leading transformational projects, inspiring others, and creating innovative solutions across business,education, and community development. It recognises my drive to open new paths, empower people, and build sustainable systems that create long-term impact.

The theme of the 2025 TIBA Awards and Conference is ‘Thriving in business and career through innovation and resilience’. How do you perceive the theme given Nigeria and Africa’s current economic outlook?

This theme captures the spirit of our generation. Nigeria’s and Africa’s realities demand resilience, but they also awaken innovation. We are rewriting what is possible by turning adversity into creativity. Thriving today means believing that even in economic storms, our ideas, vision, and collective strength can build a future far greater than the present.

What is your advice to young African entrepreneurs striving to scale their business and work in today’s harsh economic realities?

Hold on to your vision, even when the journey feels heavy. Start small but think boldly. Nigeria’s and Africa’s challenges can refine you, not stop you. Stay consistent, embrace technology, learn quickly, and surround yourself with people who lift you. Every great brand began as a brave idea. Yours can shine too.