By Rukayat Moisemhe
Corporate governance experts have urged ethical leadership, disciplined structures, and strong crisis preparedness to protect corporate reputation in turbulent periods.
They spoke during the Chartered Institute of Directors’ (CIoD) induction ceremony on Thursday in Lagos.
The event, which inducted 334 new members and 10 upgrades, had the theme, ‘Leadership, Governance and Resilience: Strengthening Corporate Reputation in Times of Crisis’.
Mr Nnamdi Okonkwo, former Group Managing Director, First Holdco Plc, said today’s volatile environment had placed leaders under unprecedented pressure.
He added that the ability to navigate storms while protecting reputation remained “a hallmark of exceptional leadership”.
Okonkwo said directors must set the tone at the top, reinforce accountability, engage stakeholders and build resilient systems that withstand volatility.
He noted that anticipating crises was now essential in a “VUCA environment marked by Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity.”
He listed organisational crises as financial, reputational, operational, cybersecurity and leadership related.
He said solutions included acknowledging crises, assembling a response team, gathering facts and communicating transparently while taking corrective action.
Okonkwo added that firms must invest in scenario planning that mapped risks and assigned clear responsibilities.
“With a proactive framework that defines who does what before a crisis hits, companies can respond faster and minimise damage.
“Whether at Board or management level, effective governance determines organisational resilience.
“As directors, you set the tone and foster a culture of compliance and integrity,” he said.
Mr Adetunji Oyebanji, President, CIoD, said crises ranging from economic shocks to cyber threats had become part of the new normal.
In such times, he stressed that corporate reputation remained fragile and crucial.
He said sound governance provided clarity of roles, effective oversight and accountability.
He added that boards that anticipated risks, maintained robust systems, and responded transparently were better placed to preserve trust.
Oyebanji urged new members to remember that their induction carried a personal call to uphold ethical leadership.
He advised them to let governance principles shape their actions, organisations, and wider societal impact.
“You must take up your mantle with humility and courage, commit to learning, lead with character and build resilient boards.
“The governance ecosystem is evolving, and every crisis must be seen as a test of stewardship,” he added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
