Held at the Pistis Conference Centre, Lekki, the three-day hybrid gathering reinforced its mandate to raise leaders who are spiritually grounded, culturally aware, and equipped to lead with originality and impact in an evolving global landscape.

With the theme DNA: Distinctive. Novel. Authentic., the 2026 edition challenged leaders to rediscover their identity, deepen their conviction, and lead with clarity in both ministry and enterprise. Participants engaged in plenary sessions, breakout workshops, and curated marketplace conversations designed to bridge faith, leadership, and economic influence.

Convener and Global Lead Pastor, Godman Akinlabi, described the milestone edition as both a celebration and a call to deeper responsibility.

“Ten years of Exponential is not just about longevity; it is about faithfulness to a clear assignment. In a world that often rewards imitation, this is a call for leaders to rediscover their identity and lead with authenticity, conviction, and purpose,” he said.

Director of Exponential Network, Pastor Debo Omotunde, reflected on the conference’s journey and growing influence, noting that “over the past decade, Exponential has catalysed leadership development, inspired new ventures, and strengthened the capacity of leaders across sectors.”

He described the 2026 edition as a “defining moment of renewal for both ministry and business leaders.”

The conference featured a distinguished lineup of global church and marketplace leaders, including Mensa Otabil, Sam Adeyemi, Ibukun Awosika, Cosmas Maduka, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Leke Alder, Taiwo Oyedele, Jerry Eze, David Oyedepo Jr., Yemi Davids, Tola Odutola, alongside Global Lead Pastors Godman Akinlabi and Bola Akinlabi, and other facilitators across specialised breakout sessions.

Across sessions, speakers challenged participants to move beyond imitation-driven leadership, embrace innovation, and build influence that extends beyond organisational or institutional boundaries.

A strong marketplace focus equipped entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals with practical insights to shape industries, drive ethical leadership, and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Key sessions addressed themes such as leadership effectiveness, strategic positioning, resilience under pressure, ethical decision-making, and building sustainable systems for growth and impact.

Special features of the 10th edition included a premium conference experience with curated meals, shuttle services, live French translation for Francophone participants, wellness-focused activities, and an exhibition marketplace designed to foster collaboration between ministry and enterprise leaders.

As Exponential Conference closes its first decade, its message remains clear: leadership is not about imitation, but about contribution; not about conformity, but about clarity of purpose and execution.

Looking ahead, the conference is poised to deepen its continental footprint, expand its leadership development initiatives, and continue equipping a new generation of leaders to drive transformation across Africa and the global stage.

The recognition was conferred at a recent colloquium held in Lagos.

The Leader Without Title Leadership Tribute is one of CVL’s most prestigious platforms, recognising individuals whose leadership impact transcends formal authority and delivers measurable social value through service, integrity, and purpose. Akinlabi was selected following a rigorous, merit-based evaluation process focused on long-term societal contribution and values-driven leadership.

Speaking on the honour, Akinlabi said, “This recognition is a reminder that leadership is ultimately about service and the responsibility to create value beyond oneself. I receive this honour on behalf of the many people and communities whose lives continue to give meaning to the work we do. True leadership is measured not by titles, but by impact, integrity, and the legacy we leave behind.”

Aknilabi was recognised for his sustained impact in human development, mentorship, and community transformation through The Elevation Church and its associated social initiatives.

Programmes such as the Pistis Empowerment Foundation, large-scale outreach efforts including Elevate 200, free medical missions, food distribution drives, and multiple welfare interventions were cited as evidence of enduring social impact.

His leadership platforms, including The Exponential Conference, Vantage Forum, Man Up, The Hangout, and the Business Roundtable, were also highlighted for their role in equipping leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and young people across sectors.

According to Professor Pat Utomi, founder and chief executive officer of the Centre for Values in Leadership, the recognition reflects the focus of this year’s edition of the programme.

“This year’s edition focuses on honouring faith leaders of outstanding global relevance, individuals whose lives reflect a long-standing commitment to justice, equity, and transformative social impact. Godman Akinlabi’s work embodies these ideals and has produced tangible results across communities within and beyond Nigeria,” Utomi stated.

In addition to his institutional and social contributions, Akinlabi’s influence extends through his authorship and thought leadership.

His books, including I Am Possible, From Fear to Faith, Don’t Waste Your Pain, Grace at Work, Radical Purity, and Divine Advantage, have reached a global audience, offering practical guidance on leadership, resilience, work, relationships, and personal development.

His active engagement across digital platforms further reflects a contemporary approach to leadership and community building.

The Centre for Values in Leadership noted that the honour places Akinlabi among a distinguished group of African leaders previously recognised by the programme, including Akintola Williams, Ernest Shonekan, Emeka Anyaoku, Grace Alele Williams, Christopher Kolade, and Wole Olanipekun.

The recognition reinforces the continuing role of values-based leadership in national development and social progress, particularly in shaping ethical, inclusive, and resilient institutions across Africa.

This free, one-day gathering is designed for singles (20+) who desire meaningful, faith-based connections in an atmosphere of worship, fun, and intentional conversations.

In a culture dominated by fleeting trends and surface-level connections, The Hangout 2025 offers a refreshing alternative: a safe, Christ-centered space for singles to engage in authentic conversations, intentional fellowship, and spiritual growth.

Tagged “Same Energy” as it happens at 4 locations on the same day, The Hangout 2025 promises an exciting mix of music, inspiration, and community. Attendees will be inspired by  Godman Akinlabi, Bola Akinlabi, Busola Wale-Siyanbola, Dave Ugbor, Phillip Olubakin,  Emmanuella Mike-Bamiloye, Bowale Kotun, Seun Afolayan, and Debo Omotunde, while  enjoying powerful performances from internationally acclaimed gospel artist Limoblaze,  Greatman Takit, Gospel Force, DJ Horphuray, DJ Sammy, and Tkeyz.

“The Hangout is not just another singles event; it is a movement to help young people build  relationships anchored on biblical principles, emotional maturity, and Godly standards,” said  Pastor Godman Akinlabi, Global Lead Pastor of The Elevation Church “We believe this gathering  will empower a generation of believers to form covenant marriages that reflect God’s design.”

At its core, The Hangout 2025 is designed to help singles connect with like-minded believers who share a vision for covenant marriages, while also creating opportunities to learn biblical principles for dating, courtship, and intentional relationships.

The programme will further equip attendees with wisdom, emotional maturity, and spiritual preparedness for marriage, fostering the growth of a supportive community that values accountability and upholds Godly standards.

The event will hold on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Pistis Conference Centre in Lekki, Lagos, with simultaneous gatherings at Maryland, Ibadan, and online. A subsequent edition will be hosted in Abuja on Saturday, September 20, 2025.

Each event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with free admission for singles aged 20 and above. Interested participants are encouraged to register online at elevationng.org/hangout25