By Oluchi Obiahu
PAST EVENT
Date: April 9, 2026
Location: Abuja, Nigeria
The “Dear Entrepreneur, We See You, We Hear You” Stakeholder Dialogue, held in Abuja on April 9, 2026, brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers in a strategic effort to strengthen Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Organized by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Entrepreneurship Development (CIDE) and hosted by Chalya M. Shagaya, the dialogue aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda to bridge the gap between government policy and real business challenges.
Focused on fostering innovation, improving access to finance, and supporting small businesses, the event created a platform for direct engagement between entrepreneurs and decision-makers.
UPCOMING EVENT
Events that may interest you!
PHARMA WEST AFRICA 2026 (NIGERIA)
Date: 14–16 April 2026
Location: Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
Pharma West Africa returns for its 3rd edition, bringing together more than 250 exhibitors and over 4,000 industry professionals from across the ECOWAS region. This major pharmaceutical trade event offers a prime opportunity to connect, network, and partner with 250+ global suppliers actively seeking new business partners in West Africa. Attendees can discover over 100,000 products spanning Finished Dosage Forms, APIs, Packaging, Contract Manufacturing, and more, with exhibitors from leading markets including India, China, Europe, Türkiye, and MENA. The programme features a 3-day CPD-accredited conference and also provides excellent networking with key players in Africa’s pharma supply chain – from government agencies and regional distributors to importers and healthcare decisionmakers – plus direct engagement with regulators such as NAFDAC, FDA Ghana, FDA Cameroon, and the Medicines Agency of Benin. Pre-registration is now open. Perfect for importers, distributors, buyers, pharmacy chains, suppliers, and all professionals looking to strengthen their presence in West Africa’s growing pharmaceutical market.
TCS LONDON MARATHON 2026 (UK)
DATE: Sunday, 26 April 2026
LOCATION: London, United Kingdom (Greenwich to The Mall)
One of the world’s biggest and most iconic marathons returns to the streets of London on Sunday, 26 April 2026. The TCS London Marathon follows the classic 26.2-mile route starting in Greenwich and finishing on The Mall, passing many of the capital’s most famous landmarks along the way. Known as one of the greatest mass-participation sporting events on the planet, it attracts tens of thousands of runners – from elite athletes chasing world-class times to charity fundraisers and first-time marathoners. With over 1.1 million applications in recent ballots, demand remains incredibly high, making this a bucket-list event for runners worldwide. The atmosphere is electric, with huge crowds lining the route to cheer on every participant in what has become a major highlight of the London sporting calendar. Whether you’re running for a personal best, raising money for charity, or simply soaking up the incredible energy, the 2026 TCS London Marathon promises another unforgettable day in the heart of the city. Entries are expected to open soon via the official ballot system. Keep an eye on the TCS London Marathon website for the latest updates, charity places, and qualification details.
CLARENS ARTS FESTIVAL 2026 (South Africa)
Date: 24–27 April 2026
Location: Clarens, Free State, South Africa
The 5th annual Clarens Arts Festival returns to the picturesque village of Clarens in South Africa’s Free State for a vibrant four-day celebration of visual arts, theatre, music, and literature. This multidisciplinary and multilingual festival (presented in Afrikaans, English, and Sesotho) transforms the charming village into a walkable open-air art destination, filled with exhibitions, live performances, interactive workshops, and family-friendly events. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Maluti Mountains, the festival brings together artists, performers, writers, and local communities to create an intimate, creative atmosphere that celebrates South African artistic diversity and talent. Expect a rich programme of art exhibitions, theatrical productions, musical performances, literary discussions, and hands-on workshops suitable for all ages.
NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL 2026 (Louisiana)
DATE: April 24 – May 3, 2026
LOCATION: Fair Grounds Race Course, New Orleans, Louisiana
One of America’s most beloved cultural celebrations returns to the Fair Grounds Race Course as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (“Jazz Fest”) transforms the city into a vibrant showcase of Louisiana’s rich musical, culinary, and cultural legacy. Spanning two weekends with over 12 stages of live music, the festival features an incredible lineup of jazz, blues, rock, gospel, zydeco, R&B, brass bands, and world music, alongside world-class Creole and Cajun cuisine, local crafts, and heritage exhibits. This year’s edition continues the festival’s mission of preserving and passing on New Orleans’ unique cultural heritage to future generations through authentic performances, food, and community spirit that have made Jazz Fest a global destination for over 50 years. Expect unforgettable sets from legendary artists and rising stars alike, delicious local favorites like gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish, and beignets, plus a joyful atmosphere that captures the true soul of New Orleans. Don’t miss this iconic spring tradition.
KAZAKHSTAN INTERNATIONAL TOURISM FAIR (KITF) 2026 – KAZAKHSTAN (KAZAKHSTAN)
Date: April 22–24, 2026
Location: Atakent International Exhibition Centre, Almaty, Kazakhstan
The Kazakhstan International Tourism Fair (KITF) 2026 is one of Central Asia’s leading tourism industry events, bringing together key players from across the global travel sector. Held in Almaty, the fair attracts thousands of trade professionals, exhibitors, and travel enthusiasts eager to explore emerging trends, new destinations, and business opportunities within the tourism market.
Serving as a vital platform for networking and collaboration, KITF showcases Kazakhstan’s rich cultural heritage and diverse travel experiences, while also promoting regional tourism development and international partnerships.
SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2026 (THAILAND)
Date: April 13-15, 2026
Location: Major celebrations in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, Thailand
Thailand’s most famous celebration, the Songkran Festival 2026, marked the Thai New Year with a vibrant blend of spiritual tradition and festive energy. Recognized by UNESCO, the festival combines temple visits, merit-making, and honoring elders with lively street celebrations across the country.
At the heart of Songkran is the iconic water splashing, symbolizing the washing away of bad luck and welcoming a fresh start. The 2026 edition once again transformed cities into joyful scenes ofcommunity, culture, and celebration—making it one of the most visually captivating festivals in the world.
BURMESE THINGYAN WATER FESTIVAL 2026 (Myanmar)
Date: April 13–16, 2026
Location: Myanmar
The Burmese Thingyan Water Festival 2026 marked Myanmar’s traditional New Year with a vibrant nationwide celebration centered on water, renewal, and community spirit. Known for its large-scale water fights symbolizing the washing away of the past year’s misfortunes, the festival blended joyful street celebrations with deep cultural traditions. The 2026 edition introduced a “Walking Thingyan” approach, shifting focus from vehicle-based festivities to more inclusive, people-centered experiences. Across cities like Yangon, Mandalay, and Nay Pyi Taw, the event featured traditional Yein dances, religious merit-making, local delicacies, and strong community participation, highlighting heritage, unity, and a fresh start for the new year.
IMF–WORLD BANK SPRING MEETINGS 2026 – UNITED STATES (USA)
Date: April 13–18, 2026
Location: Washington, D.C., USA
The 2026 Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG), held from April 13 to 18 in Washington, D.C., convened global finance leaders, policymakers, and development experts to address pressing economic and financial issues. Key sessions included the Development Committee Meeting and the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC), alongside a series of forums focused on international development, global economic trends, and financial markets.
The meetings served as a critical platform for dialogue, collaboration, and policy direction, reinforcing global efforts toward economic stability, sustainable growth, and strengthened international partnerships.
THE MAKING OF A MILLIONAIRE SUMMIT (NIGERIA)
Date: April 12-13, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – Apr 13, 3:00 AM
Location: Muson Centre, Lagos State
The Making of a Millionaire Bootcamp is a high-impact learning and networking event designed for ambitious entrepreneurs, startup founders, and skilled professionals who want to unlock new opportunities for growth, funding, and global careers.
This bootcamp brings together industry leaders, investors, employers, and forward-thinking young professionals to share insights, opportunities, and practical strategies for building wealth and creating meaningful impact.
Participants will gain valuable exposure through engaging learning sessions, strategic networking opportunities, and interactive experiences designed to help them position themselves for success in business and the global job market. See you there
