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The Thinklab Group Headquarters in Abuja came alive with excitement, admiration and intellectual engagement as public officials, business leaders, professionals, academics, mentees and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori at the maiden edition of the Dr. Sa’id Kori Legacy Forum Colloquium. Organised to mark his 39th birthday, the event was not only a celebration of an accomplished professional but also a recognition of a legacy already making significant contributions to leadership, investment promotion, youth empowerment and national development.
Held under the theme, “Youth in Leadership Role,” the colloquium reflected Dr. Kori’s longstanding commitment to nurturing future leaders and creating opportunities for young Nigerians to participate meaningfully in governance, business and economic transformation. The event brought together an impressive mix of policymakers, development experts, entrepreneurs, academics and young professionals who shared a common admiration for a man many described as a visionary institution builder whose influence continues to grow across both the public and private sectors.
A major highlight of the gathering was the unveiling of the Compendium of Achievements, Testimonials and Legacy, a publication documenting Dr. Kori’s inspiring professional journey, leadership philosophy and numerous contributions to national development. The publication also featured testimonials from colleagues, associates, mentees and friends whose lives have been shaped by his mentorship, generosity and commitment to excellence. The compendium served as both a celebration of his accomplishments and an enduring record of his impact on individuals, institutions and society.
Dr. Kori has earned a distinguished reputation as an Infrastructure Finance Strategist, Investment Promotion Expert, Development Economist and Public-Private Partnership specialist. Over the years, he has occupied several strategic leadership positions that have strengthened investment, economic development and institutional growth in Nigeria. He currently serves as Chairman of the Borno Investment Promotion Agency, Chief Investment Adviser to the Borno State Government, Chairman of the Nigerian Food Corporation, Technical Adviser to the Lake Chad Basin, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Thinklab Group, and Chairman of Fulus Capital. Through these positions, he has championed innovative policies and strategic initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development, attracting investments and expanding economic opportunities.
Delivering the welcome address, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of the Nigerian Food Corporation, Dr. Babagana Adam, paid glowing tribute to the celebrant, describing him as an exceptional leader whose vision, resilience and unwavering commitment to nation-building have inspired countless young professionals and entrepreneurs. According to him, Dr. Kori’s greatest achievement extends beyond the institutions he has helped to build. Rather, it lies in the people he has mentored, empowered and equipped with the confidence and capacity to become leaders in their own right.
Guests were also treated to an emotional multimedia presentation that chronicled Dr. Kori’s personal and professional journey. The presentation highlighted his rise from a determined entrepreneur to one of Nigeria’s respected investment strategists and development experts. It showcased several milestones achieved throughout his career, including initiatives that have supported investment promotion, economic reforms, institutional development and humanitarian interventions. The inspiring documentary drew applause from participants who acknowledged the consistency, discipline and vision that have defined his career.
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The intellectual segment of the colloquium featured a paper presentation by Human Resources, Finance and Administration expert, Mr. Abubakar Bello. Speaking on “The Impact of Youth Empowerment on Nigeria’s Changing Political Climate,” Bello stressed that meaningful national development cannot be achieved without deliberate investments in young people. He argued that youth inclusion in governance, entrepreneurship and policy formulation remains essential for building a more prosperous and stable Nigeria. He challenged governments, private organisations and development partners to create enabling environments where young citizens can thrive and contribute productively to national growth.
Another memorable presentation came from respected corporate leader and real estate investor, Chief John Anichukwu, who delivered the keynote address titled “Democratizing Real Estate.” He advocated innovative financing models capable of making property ownership more accessible to ordinary Nigerians. He also called for inclusive housing policies, stronger collaboration between government and private investors, and reforms that would encourage wider participation in the real estate sector. According to him, expanding access to affordable housing would stimulate economic activities while creating wealth and employment opportunities across the country.
One of the most engaging sessions during the event was the interactive panel discussion themed “The Northern Horizon: Building the Next Generation of Visionaries, Builders and Industrial Titans.” Moderated by Fauziya Nasir, the panel featured respected development experts including Dr. Mala Geidam, Mrs. Veronica Braimoh and Hajiya Fatima Grema. Together, they examined practical strategies for unlocking Northern Nigeria’s vast economic potential through visionary leadership, industrialisation, innovation and entrepreneurship. The discussants emphasised the need for stronger partnerships among governments, educational institutions, private investors and young professionals to accelerate sustainable economic development throughout the region.
The maiden colloquium also witnessed the formal launch of its commemorative publication by Mr. Abubakar Bello, Yahuza Usman and Kolomi Babagana. Organisers described the publication as the beginning of a long-term platform dedicated to leadership conversations, policy engagement, mentorship and intellectual exchange. They expressed confidence that subsequent editions of the forum would continue to inspire ideas capable of addressing Nigeria’s developmental challenges while nurturing a new generation of transformational leaders.
Demonstrating widespread support for the initiative, several guests and supporters publicly announced financial contributions towards sustaining the Dr. Sa’id Kori Legacy Forum Colloquium. The fundraising session, coordinated by Master of Ceremonies Mr. Ahmad Tijani Adaba, reflected the strong belief among participants that the forum has the potential to become one of Nigeria’s leading platforms for leadership development, public policy dialogue and youth empowerment.
The celebration reached an emotional climax with the ceremonial cutting of the birthday cake and presentation of gifts to Dr. Kori by Arc. Ifeanyi Chu and Ayodimeji Kadiri on behalf of colleagues, friends and mentees. The symbolic gesture underscored the deep respect and admiration enjoyed by the celebrant, whose leadership style has continued to inspire countless individuals across different sectors of the economy.
Many participants described Dr. Kori as far more than a successful executive. They portrayed him as a mentor, institution builder, visionary leader and nation-builder whose influence extends beyond boardrooms into the lives of young professionals striving to make meaningful contributions to society. They noted that although he is only 39 years old, his achievements and impact reflect decades of purposeful leadership, innovation and service.
As the maiden edition of the Dr. Sa’id Kori Legacy Forum Colloquium drew to a close, participants renewed their commitment to promoting the ideals championed by the celebrant, including ethical leadership, youth development, investment promotion, economic transformation and sustainable nation-building. Organisers expressed optimism that the annual gathering would evolve into one of Nigeria’s foremost leadership forums, providing a platform for constructive dialogue, mentorship and innovative solutions to national challenges. The overwhelming message that echoed throughout the event was that true leadership is measured not merely by titles held or institutions built, but by the lives transformed and the enduring legacy left behind. For Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori, the celebration of his 39th birthday stood as a fitting tribute to a remarkable journey of vision, excellence, service and lasting impact.
