The third edition of the International Conference for Event Ushers (ICEU 3.0) has reinforced the drive to professionalise Nigeria’s event ushering industry by equipping participants with leadership skills, entrepreneurial knowledge and career advancement opportunities.
The conference, held at Uzzitz Event Centre, Mabushi, Abuja, attracted event ushers, industry professionals, entrepreneurs and corporate stakeholders from across the country. With the theme, “Beyond Ushering – The Standard Rises,” the event focused on repositioning ushering as a respected profession driven by excellence, leadership, customer service, innovation and business development.
Convened by Her Royal Highness Rebecca Temitope Oloko of Iwaya-Yaba Kingdom, Lagos State, the conference featured expert presentations on etiquette, leadership, personal branding, business growth and cross-border collaboration. Speakers included Riches F. Onaji, Dr. Sameera Abubakar Abdullahi, Onyekachi Odor, Temitope Ruth Jacob and Fatoumatta Gaye.
Participants also explored income-generating opportunities through strategic partnerships with organisations such as Wakanow, Access Bank’s W Initiative, Power Oil and MOL Tech Accessories. The conference highlighted travel affiliate programmes, financial empowerment initiatives and distributorship opportunities designed to help ushers diversify their income and build sustainable businesses.
Speaking on the vision behind the conference, Convener HRH Rebecca Temitope Oloko said ICEU was created to empower ushers beyond their traditional roles by providing access to knowledge, mentorship, strategic partnerships and practical business opportunities.
“Our goal is for every participant to leave knowing that ushering is not just a job but a gateway to leadership, entrepreneurship and limitless possibilities. Through collaboration and capacity building, we are raising a new generation of professionals who can compete globally,” she said.
She also unveiled plans to expand the conference beyond Nigeria into a continental and global platform, with future editions expected to feature stronger partnerships with insurance firms, financial institutions and other corporate organisations to create more opportunities for event professionals.
The conference featured specialised training sessions, panel discussions, mentorship engagements and networking opportunities, further strengthening collaboration within the events industry.
Organisers said ICEU remains committed to raising professional standards, promoting innovation and creating sustainable career pathways for event ushers across Africa and beyond.