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John Riordan, Leadership and Organisation Development Consultant, alongside Maria Asuelimen, MD/CEO of AMA Consulting LLC and Curator of Zen AMA GSDS and MLC, at the inaugural MLC 2025 event in Abuja
MLC Launches in West Africa with a Bold Vision for Leadership
On Friday, November 21, 2025, the Magnificent Leadership Conference (MLC) made its landmark entrance into West Africa, hosting an inspiring day of leadership innovation, strategic foresight, and reflective practice at Fraser Suites Abuja. Spearheaded by Maria Asuelimen, Managing Director of AMA Consulting LLC and founder of Zen AMA Global Springs Development Services, this edition marked a pivotal expansion of the globally acclaimed MLC series, renowned for uniting leaders who are steering change in an era of rapid global transformation.
Embracing the “GO BIG” Ethos Amidst Global Change
The 2025 conference theme, “GO BIG”, served as a rallying cry for leaders to redefine success in a world marked by volatility, technological upheaval, and shifting geopolitical landscapes. The event attracted a diverse group of participants-from government officials and corporate innovators to nonprofit visionaries-who collectively explored what it takes to lead boldly and sustainably in today’s complex environment. The core message was clear: to survive and thrive, leaders must embrace expansive thinking and decisive action.
John Riordan delivering the keynote on the transformative Power of Perceptions at the MLC 2025 Abuja launch
Immersive Learning Through Three Pillars of Leadership
The conference’s agenda was thoughtfully designed around three fundamental leadership dimensions: Leading Yourself, Leading People, and Leading Organisations. Attendees participated in hands-on workshops, dynamic keynote presentations, and intimate fireside discussions that addressed the multifaceted challenges and opportunities leaders face today.
Distinguished Speakers and Their Impactful Insights
The event featured a stellar lineup of international leadership experts. John Riordan opened the day with a keynote on the Power of Perceptions, emphasizing how mindset shifts are the foundation of meaningful transformation. Sidney Sampson shared his journey of Authentic Leadership, highlighting the importance of collaboration and legacy-building. Dr. Mojisola Odeku inspired participants with her fireside chat, Building an Army for Change, focusing on cultivating teams capable of executing ambitious visions. Chioma Nebo urged leaders to Lead with Intention, stressing clarity and accountability, while Nicole Kellum provided actionable strategies on Scaling Your Capabilities through Networks, underscoring the collective nature of growth.
Panelists Blessing Adeogo Ayankanmi, Otse Ogorry, Chijioke Kaduru, and Dr. Morenike Alade-Oni engage in a discussion on Challenging Norms and Driving Bold Change at MLC 2025 Abuja
MLC Abuja: A Catalyst for a New Leadership Era in West Africa
Reflecting on the conference’s success, Maria Asuelimen remarked:
“The launch of the Magnificent Leadership Conference in Abuja has confirmed our conviction that West Africa is not only prepared to GO BIG but is already advancing with momentum. The event brought together leaders ready to face the complexities of a changing world with clarity, courage, and collaboration. The breakthroughs and commitments we witnessed mark the dawn of a transformative leadership wave across the region. Our mission now is to nurture this momentum, enhance leadership capabilities, and build a thriving ecosystem where leaders at all levels can amplify their vision and impact. MLC Abuja is the spark, and what follows will shape Africa’s leadership footprint globally.”
Responding to Africa’s Dynamic Leadership Landscape
MLC Abuja 2025 arrived at a critical juncture as African industries accelerate digital transformation, restructure operations, and face heightened competition. The conference served as both a reflective mirror and a strategic compass, enabling leaders to confront current challenges while equipping them with the tools to design resilient, forward-thinking strategies. The atmosphere was charged with more than just conference energy-it was a collective movement of leaders united by a shared vision to redefine leadership across the continent and beyond.
A diverse audience engaged deeply during the MLC 2025 Abuja conference
Commitment to Action and Lasting Impact
The inaugural MLC event concluded with participants expressing renewed dedication to applying the innovative frameworks, leadership tools, and insights gained to their organizations, communities, and personal growth journeys. This commitment signals a promising future for leadership development in West Africa.
About the Magnificent Leadership Conference (MLC)
The Magnificent Leadership Conference is committed to fostering collaboration, accelerating growth, and inspiring transformational leadership. Its mission is to empower leaders to effectively guide themselves, their teams, and their organizations with purpose and measurable impact. For further details, visit the official MLC website.
About AMA Consulting LLC
AMA Consulting LLC is a U.S.-based federal contracting firm specializing in organizational excellence, program management, and information management services tailored for government agencies. Learn more at ama-consult.com.
About Zen AMA Global Springs Development Services
Zen AMA Global Springs Development Services (Zen AMA GSDS) is an innovative development consultancy focused on advancing global health, education, women’s empowerment, and economic growth across Africa. Collaborating with governments, grassroots organizations, private sector leaders, and international partners, Zen AMA GSDS designs and implements transformative initiatives that empower communities and promote sustainable development.
Their vision is a future where communities lead their own development journeys, leveraging global expertise and resources to create enduring impact. Discover more at zenamaglobal.com.
