How a visionary business leader is reshaping China-Africa relations through enterprise, empathy, and excellence.
In a world often divided by borders, Chief Diana Chen is quietly building bridges.
Recently celebrated in Lagos by an elite gathering of business executives, policymakers, and global influencers, Diana Chen, Chairman of Choice International Group (CIG) and Vice Chairman of the China-Africa Business Council (Nigeria), was honoured for her pioneering work in deepening China-Africa relations through bold investments, human-first leadership, and a fierce commitment to empowering communities.
The evening, which doubled as a celebration of her birthday, was more than a tribute. It was a powerful reflection of a journey, one that began in China and continues to leave indelible marks across Africa.
From Guangzhou to Lagos: A Journey of Vision and Valor
Diana Chen’s story is not just one of economic impact; it’s a blueprint for global leadership powered by cultural intelligence. From transportation to renewable energy, agriculture to education, her enterprises have become vessels for change, empowering youth, creating jobs, and reshaping narratives.
“She’s not just a business leader,” said Ram, Chief Financial Officer at CIG Motors, “she’s an architect of cross-continental progress. Her leadership has facilitated over $2 billion in investments into Africa transforming not only economies but lives.”
In a world hungry for connection, Chen’s superpower lies in her ability to listen deeply, lead softly, and inspire action.
Celebrating Her Legacy: Two Panels, One Powerful Story
The event featured two compelling panel conversations that peeled back the layers of the woman behind the powerhouse brand.
Panel 1: “Home Away from Home: The Journey of a Cultural Bridge”
Moderated by Toyosi Etim-Effiong, this intimate session spotlighted Diana alongside two women she calls “sisters”:
- Iyabo Soji-Okunsanya, Executive Director of Access Bank Corporate & Investment Banking
- Chinyere Almona, Director General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI)
Together, they unpacked Chen’s cultural adaptability, relentless optimism about Nigeria, and her gift for making others feel heard, even in the highest-pressure boardrooms.
“She listens not to respond,” Almona shared, “but to understand. That’s rare, and it’s powerful.”
Panel 2: “Legacy and Creative Impact: Beyond Business & Borders”
Hosted by Osarogie Ogbonmwan, this session dove into Chen’s philosophy on legacy, creativity, and future-focused leadership.
Contributors like Temi Popoola, GMD/CEO of the Nigerian Exchange Group, and Ademola Ogunbanjo, President of Oando Clean Energy, spoke about her strategic mind, mentorship spirit, and authentic drive.
“From late-night strategy sessions to tea-table ideations, Diana challenges you to think bigger, do better, and lead bolder,” Popoola noted. “She’s the kind of leader who doesn’t just build companies, she builds people.”
The Ripple Effect: Impact in Motion
Chen’s influence reaches beyond executive suites. Through initiatives like the Silk Road International Fellowship Program, she has sponsored Nigerian students, like those from Yaba College of Technology to study automobile engineering in China, exposing them to global standards and possibilities.
Her legacy is one of transformational empowerment, a fusion of business brilliance and cultural diplomacy.
A Legacy of Heart, Not Just Hustle
In his closing remarks, Jubril Arogundade, Executive Director of CIG Motors, delivered a moving tribute:
“Chief Diana reminds us that greatness is not confined to boardrooms. It’s found in courage, compassion, and commitment to lifting others. Her story is a call to lead with more heart and dream without borders.”
