Our ED Reflects

A Year of Growth, Impact, and New Beginnings

As the constant notices of new Christmas movies pop up on my Netflix list, I’m reminded that the year is drawing to a close. It’s a moment for reflection, and as I look back on my time as the interim Executive Director of the Lagos Angel Network (LAN), I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and pride. Our past year has been a transformative journey, filled with resilience, innovation, and the unwavering dedication of our remarkable community.

One of the highlights of this year was reviving LAN’s investment activities after a two-year hiatus. The successful investment in PAY-U wasn’t just a financial milestone; it symbolized our renewed commitment to supporting early-stage entrepreneurs and innovation. Even now, as we approach 2025, we’re thrilled to be in the final stages of funding another promising startup. These achievements are a testament to the collective dedication and energy of our investor community.

Building a Knowledge-Rich Ecosystem

Another source of pride has been our focus on education and mentorship. We’ve enriched our library of resources, offering members – both seasoned investors and newcomers – the tools they need to make informed investment decisions.

Mentorship for me has been particularly rewarding. I’ve had the privilege of working one-on-one with some incredible entrepreneurs, witnessing their growth and resilience. These relationships often go beyond business, shaping the personal and professional journeys of everyone involved.

Our monthly Lunch & Learn sessions have become a cornerstone of our community’s growth. These intimate virtual gatherings have tackled crucial topics, from valuation strategies to mental health in entrepreneurship. The insights shared have equipped our members with practical tools for navigating their investment journeys.

Equally exciting have been our quarterly Members Meetups. These physical gatherings are where theory meets practice—a space for collaboration, partnership, and the cross-pollination of ideas. The energy in these rooms reminds us of what makes LAN special: our shared commitment to driving innovation and entrepreneurship.

Collaboration is at the heart of our strategy. By forging partnerships with corporate entities, fellow angel groups, and investment organizations, LAN has become a vital part of Nigeria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. These alliances have opened new doors for our members and startups, creating a more interconnected and supportive environment for innovation.

A Personal Note of Transition

As I prepare to transition from my role as Executive Director, I’m filled with mixed emotions. Leading this extraordinary community has been one of the more fulfilling experiences of my career. However, I’m equally excited about the future of LAN under the leadership of Dr. Solomon King.

Solomon's expertise, passion for angel investing, and commitment to education will undoubtedly take LAN to new heights. I have complete confidence that he will build on our successes and lead our community towards even greater impact.

Looking Ahead

As I consider the next chapter of LAN’s journey, I’m inspired by the possibilities ahead. The foundations we’ve laid are strong, and the vision remains clear:

• Champion early-stage investing as a catalyst for economic growth
• Empower our members with knowledge and tools to thrive as investors
• Expand our impact through strategic investments and partnerships
• Create bridges between our community and opportunities

To every member of the LAN community—investors, entrepreneurs, and partners—thank you. Your commitment to building something greater than ourselves has been the cornerstone of our success.

Though my role may change, my dedication to LAN’s mission remains unwavering. I look forward to seeing our community continue to grow, innovate, and inspire.

Here’s to a future filled with possibilities, collaboration, and impact. Onward and upward!