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By Chukwuma Umeorah
Top executives and stakeholders from across Nigeria’s corporate sector have praised the impact of Chief Diana Chen on Africa-China relations, citing her role in driving over $2 billion in cross-continental investments and fostering cultural and economic collaboration through inclusive leadership.
The remarks were made during a high-level event hosted by Choice International Group (CIG) Motors, where business leaders gathered to honour Chen’s long standing contributions as chairman of CIG and Vice Chairman of the China-Africa Business Council.
The event titled: “An Afternoon with Diana Chen” also marked her birthday and served as a forum to reflect on her influence across business, mentorship, and diplomacy.
“Diana Chen is not just a business leader; she’s an architect of cross-continental progress,” said Dr. Ram, Chief Financial Officer of CIG Motors. “As Vice Chairman of the China-Africa Business Council, she has championed over $2 billion in investments into Africa, demonstrating that her leadership standard demands excellence and delivers profound impact, perpetually aspiring to make a difference rather than simply a living.”
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Panel sessions explored different aspects of Chen’s leadership journey and featured personal reflections from prominent stakeholders including Executive Director at Access Bank, Iyabo Soji-Okunsanya, Director General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Chinyere Almona among other prominent Nigerians. The panel highlighted Chen’s integration into Nigerian society and her intentional approach to leadership, characterised by active listening and cultural sensitivity.
“She has a way of making people feel heard without forcing her views,” said Dr. Almona, noting that Chen’s embrace of Nigerian values has strengthened her connection with the business community and beyond.
CEO of Oando Clean Energy Ademola Ogunbanjo while commending Chen’s immense societal impact stated, “She’s shown that one should not aspire to make a living, but rather aspire to make a difference,” Ogunbanjo said, citing Chen’s humility and work ethic as defining attributes of her success.
A standout moment was the recognition of students from Yaba College of Technology, who are direct beneficiaries of the Silk Road International Fellowship Program; an initiative supported by Chief Chen that provides opportunities to study automobile engineering in China. One of the students remarked, “Thanks to Chief Diana’s vision and support, we have gained world-class skills that will shape our futures and the future of Africa’s automotive industry.”
Executive Director of CIG Motors, Jubril Arogundade, said, “Chief Diana has reminded us that power lies not just in titles or achievements, but in authenticity, resilience, and service to others. She’s shown us that greatness is built not only in boardrooms, but in moments of courage, compassion, and purpose.”
