Nigerian journalist Adefemi Akinsanya has joined CNN International from Arise News, where she will host a new multiplatform series spotlighting African companies expanding their businesses and influence globally.
CNN announced Akinsanya’s appointment on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, unveiling her as the anchor of Africa Inc., a new programme exploring how businesses across the continent are scaling up, innovating and competing on the international stage.
The series, sponsored by Dangote Industries Limited, will be anchored by Akinsanya from Lagos, with short segments already airing across CNN platforms.
The full half-hour programme will premiere on August 29, 2026, and run through 2027, with additional episodes planned. Bi-monthly segments and digital content will also be published on CNN.com and the network’s social media platforms.
Akinsanya described her new role as a timely opportunity to tell Africa’s evolving economic story to a global audience.
She said Africa was experiencing a wave of innovation, resilience and ambition that was transforming industries and creating opportunities with global impact.
The journalist brings considerable international reporting experience to CNN. She has previously worked with Al Jazeera, Reuters, Sky News, TRT World and Arise News.
Akinsanya has reported from the frontlines of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, covered Nigeria’s #EndSARS protests and the 2024 US presidential election.
She was also a 2023 Nieman Fellow at Harvard University.
CNN International Group Senior Vice President and Global Head of Productions, Ellana Lee, welcomed Akinsanya to the network, saying her storytelling experience would help make Africa Inc. a compelling window into the continent’s growing economic influence.
The programme will focus on major sectors including technology, manufacturing, hospitality and entertainment, with CNN production teams already filming across several African cities.
With Akinsanya anchoring from Lagos, Africa Inc. is expected to showcase African businesses and entrepreneurs seeking to take their innovations and brands to the global market.
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