By Rukayat Moisemhe
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has affirmed that governance remains central to restoring confidence and unlocking long-term prosperity under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The governor said this at the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD) Dinner and Awards Night on Wednesday night with theme : “The Triumph of Leadership in Challenging Times”.
He was represented by Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Mr Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin.
Sanwo-Olu said the state’s willingness to collaborate with the institute to advance governance.
He asserted that authority only had value when guided with integrity honour and governance.
The governor noted that the environment in which directors operated today was complex with unpredictable market, technology shaping business and newer stakeholders’ demand and sustainability drive.
He urged directors to be informed ane accountable as margin for error have narrows and stressed that strong institutions supported economic development.
“To all directors, continue to champion transparency and mentor the next generation and yes, Lagos is willing to collaborate with CIoD as part of our recommitment to excellence in leadership.
“Under the renewed hope agenda, governance remains central to restoring confidence and unlocking long-term prosperity,” he said.
Dr Micheal Olawale-Cole, Chief Executive Officer, Colenson Brokers Nigeria Ltd., noted that triumphs as directors was often pictured as breakthroughs, ground-breaking innovations, crisis resolution, expanded market share among others.
He, however, said that leadership in challenging times reminded that triumph was not merely a destination; but the journey itself.
Olawale-Cole affirmed that true leadership triumphs not by avoiding adversity, but by navigating through it and ensuring that teams not only survived but emerged stronger, more focused, more united, and more resilient.
He emphasised the need to integrate the three essential pillars of leadership in challenging times- clarity, courage and connection into leadership decision making processes.
“Evolving global, national, socio-economic, and environmental forces continue to challenge long-held assumptions, legacy systems, and traditional models of leadership.
“In this dynamic landscape, our responsibility as leaders has become even more profound.
“It is our vision, our ethical compass, and our unwavering commitment to excellence that shape enduring institutions, strengthen our economy, and sustain the trust and unity essential for national progress,” he said.
CIoD President, Mr Adetunji Oyebanji, said the event’s theme spoke to the courage and discipline required of directors in a period marked with economic strain, social pressure, and shifting corporate realities.
He said it affirmed recognition of directors who continue to uphold sound judgement, stability, and clarity of purpose in spite of the uncertainties that affected organisations across sectors.
Oyebanji noted that the year has been one in which boards were called upon to make difficult decisions, reinforce ethical standards, strengthen risk oversight, and sustain confidence among stakeholders.
He said the institute remained steadfast in its mandate to raise the standard of directorship in the country.
“Our aim is clear: to help create boards that make responsible choices, safeguard institutional integrity, and ensure that organisations contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic and social advancement.
“As we gather here tonight, we also celebrate those whose achievements exemplify dedication to duty.
“Their accomplishments remind us that progress is possible even in difficult seasons and that leadership grounded in principle does not bend with pressure,” he said.
Oyebanji said in looking towards 2026, CIoD remains firmly committed to deepening the quality of directorship in Nigeria.
He asserted that the institute would broaden capacity-building efforts, strengthen its advocacy, and pursue more purposeful alliances that support ethical leadership and effective board practice.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that BUA cement bagged the CIoD corporate governance award, Dr Shamsuddeen Usman, Chairman,
Ministry of Finance Incorporated was awarded for good governance.
Mrs Ibukun Awosika, Founder, The Chair Centre Group, was awarded the CIoD Entrepreneurial Award, while the Anofi Goubadia Award for Leadership and Excellence was presented to Mr Oscar Onyema, former CEO, Nigerian Exchange Ltd., among others.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa
