A new report by PwC shows that 61 per cent of CEOs in Nigeria anticipate a rise in global economic growth over the next 12 months, up from 38 per cent in last year’s global survey. The report also said they are investing heavily in artificial intelligence technologies to bolster their firms.
The PwC’s 28th Annual Global CEOs survey: Nigerian perspective was tagged from resilience to reinvention.
The report said despite economic challenges like inflation and macroeconomic volatility, 64 per cent of Nigerian CEOs express confidence in the growth of the domestic economy.
This year’s survey also reveals a compelling narrative of Nigerian CEOs making strategic decisions to reinvent their businesses amid rising economic uncertainty and megatrends like GenAI and Sustainability.
Regional Senior Partner, West Market Area, PwC Nigeria, Sam Abu commenting on the report said,
“Thriving in Nigeria’s competitive business landscape demands resilience and strategic foresight from CEOs. “Despite economic challenges like inflation and macroeconomic volatility, our survey shows Nigerian business leaders remain optimistic—not just about survival but about transformation. CEOs are actively reshaping their business models to seize emerging opportunities by venturing into new sectors, leveraging technology, and engaging with evolving customer segments.”
Speaking further, Abu said, “For CEOs yet to embrace this shift, the moment to act is now. Navigating disruption and megatrends requires a long-term vision and clear reinvention priorities, from business model transformation and generative AI adoption to sustainability strategies. The risk of delay can cause a widening gap between forward-thinking organisations and those struggling to keep pace.”
The report shows that inflation accounts for 58 per cent of the major pressures CEOs in Nigeria are facing in the years ahead with macroeconomic volatility accounting for 39 per cent.
It said 61 per cent of CEOs in Nigeria are reinventing their operations and business models and exploring new sectors while 58 per cent are targeting new customer segments, demonstrating agility and positioning themselves for success.
The report further notes that AI adoption is emerging as a critical lever for long-term growth, with 81 per cent of CEOs anticipating integration of AI into their technology within the next three years.
On sustainability, the report shows that 67 per cent of CEOs have made climate-friendly investments over the past five years.
The publication highlights the resilience and adaptability of CEOs in Nigeria amid economic uncertainties. It highlights the importance of strategic reinvention, AI integration, and sustainability in driving future growth and success.