Political commentator Oladimeji Bolarinwa will lead a London discussion on African history, regional power and international relations at an event titled “Geopolitics: The Battle for West Africa” on Friday, 6 November 2026.
The in-person programme, branded Geopolitics with Oladimeji Bolarinwa, will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at St. Pancras Community Association, 67 Plender Street, London NW1 0LB. It will explore “History, power and the future of West Africa in a changing world”, with a particular focus on echoes from the Songhai and Oyo empires.
From African empires to contemporary power
The event’s historical focus places two influential West African political formations at the centre of the conversation. The Songhai Empire developed into a major regional power in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, with trade, administration and scholarship closely linked to its centres of influence. The Oyo Empire became an important political and military force within Yorubaland and beyond, shaping regional relations, commerce and systems of authority.
By examining these historical experiences alongside contemporary developments, the programme aims to open discussion about how power is built, sustained and contested, and what the past may reveal about West Africa’s current position in global affairs.
The event theme, “The Battle for West Africa”, points towards wider debates about regional security, sovereignty, economic influence, political institutions and relationships with international powers. These subjects have significance for people living in West Africa as well as diaspora communities whose interests remain closely connected to the region.
Oladimeji Bolarinwa leads the conversation
Bolarinwa is named on the official event flyer as the featured speaker. Under the Geopolitics with Oladimeji Bolarinwa banner, the occasion is presented as a conversation on “history, power and Africa’s tomorrow” rather than a conventional social gathering.
The advertised programme is likely to interest students, researchers, professionals, community leaders and members of the African diaspora who wish to engage with debates about the continent’s political direction. No additional speakers or detailed session timetable were identified on the supplied flyer.
London gathering and registration
The programme centres on Bolarinwa’s presentation and discussion of West African history and geopolitics.
The organisers have invited interested attendees to register through Eventbrite. The flyer provides a QR code for registration and identifies the event as a physical meeting.
The gathering will be held on Friday, 6 November 2026, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at St. Pancras Community Association, 67 Plender Street, London NW1 0LB. Further event information is available through the registration details provided by the organisers.
For attendees, the discussion offers an opportunity to consider the legacies of the Songhai and Oyo empires alongside questions about the future of West Africa in a changing international environment.
