At the 2025 Lagos Mainland Regional conference, Business Network International (BNI) moved beyond simple networking tips, framing its core philosophy as a critical business defense strategy for navigating economic volatility. Under the theme “Elevate and Expand,” the event equipped entrepreneurs with a mindset to thrive in uncertainty.
The keynote address by Dr. Niyi Adesanya, a foremost performance strategist, introduced the “Business Ambidextrous Strategy.” He taught members to balance exploiting current opportunities while exploring new ones, a vital skill in a fluctuating economy. Central to this, he explained, are the “Three Rs”: Resources, Readiness, and Reputation.
“Of these, reputation carries the most weight,” Dr. Adesanya asserted, shifting the focus from pure profit to sustainable value. “Business is not about money alone. It’s a cycle of customer satisfaction, retention, and acquisition, all protected by a trusted name.”
This philosophy was brought to life with tangible results by BNI leaders. Mr. Nkem Mpamah, Executive Director, revealed that the two chapters within the region—BNI Platinum and BNI Fortune—have become a powerful economic engine. Despite national economic pressures, their nearly 40 members have generated over N220 million in closed business through member-to-member referrals.
“This isn’t just revenue; it’s a reflection of a community built on trusted relationships,” Mpamah stated. “Our journey has been marked by challenges, but the resilience and collaboration of our members have turned this network into a proven buffer against economic uncertainty.”
Charles Onyibe, President of BNI Platinum Nigeria, reinforced that their success is not merely a commercial milestone but a testament to a shared value system. The gathering, he noted, was a celebration of the strong relationships that form the bedrock of every business transaction.
The conference’s ultimate message was clear: in an unpredictable economy, the most valuable asset a business can cultivate is not just its cash reserve, but its “relationship capital”—a network of trust that generates both revenue and resilience.
