Ernst & Young Report: CEOs Embrace AI for Growth Amid Global Uncertainties

Ernst & Young's 2026 CEO Outlook Report, as discussed by Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja, reveals that CEOs are increasingly viewing artificial intelligence (AI) as a key enabler for productivity, revenue growth, and customer experience enhancement. The report emphasizes the critical role of AI in sustaining transformation and separating leaders from laggards in the evolving global business landscape.

CEOs are focusing on talent and technology to adapt to geopolitical and technological shifts, with a strong emphasis on investing in AI, automation, and advanced analytics. Andrea Guerzoni, Global Vice Chair of EY Parthenon, highlights the need for CEOs to navigate uncertainties by prioritizing cost discipline, product-driven investments, and leveraging AI for precise pricing and customer insights.

Anthony Oputa, EY's Regional Managing Partner for West Africa, stresses the importance of disciplined decision-making and strategic investments in AI to drive growth and competitive advantage amidst economic fragility. The report underscores the necessity for CEOs to embrace agility, reinvent organizational models, and leverage AI to unlock differentiation and customer value.