The Companion, an association of Muslim men in business and the professions, has announced plans to host its 7th National Discourse on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at the University of Lagos, with prominent political leaders and public intellectuals expected to participate.
The event, themed “Nigeria’s Political Landscape and the Ethno-Religious Divides,” will examine the country’s democratic journey through the topic, “Interrogating Nigeria’s Democracy in the Context of Multiple Diversity.”
According to a joint press statement signed by the Chairman of the Media, Publicity and Digital Mobilisation Subcommittee, Prof. Tunde Akanni, and the Secretary, Tajudeen Balogun, the annual discourse aims to foster constructive national conversations on governance, unity and peaceful coexistence.
Former Kano State Governor and former Minister of Education, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, will chair the event, while former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, is expected to deliver the keynote address.
The guest speaker is Prof. Liasu Adele Jinadu, former Director-General of the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), who is expected to provide scholarly insights into Nigeria’s democratic evolution and the challenges posed by the country’s ethnic and religious diversity.
Also expected at the event as Special Guests of Honour are the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salis, Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security.
The discourse will be held at the J.F. Ade Ajayi Auditorium (Main Auditorium), University of Lagos, and will also feature a free medical check-up for participants.
Organisers said the forum is designed to bring together policymakers, academics, professionals, religious leaders, students and members of the public to engage in meaningful discussions on strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and promoting national cohesion.
The Companion has, over the years, used its National Discourse series as a platform to address critical national issues while encouraging dialogue, policy engagement and sustainable solutions to the country’s socio-political challenges.