By Rukayat Moisemhe

Dr Stanley Jacob, Chief Executive Officer of Zest Payment Ltd., has urged the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN) to lead the development of Nigerian-built software for secretaries and corporate governance professionals.

Jacob made this appeal at the ICSAN Lagos Chapter Summit on Thursday in Lagos.

He noted that such software would be essential in advancing the digital transformation of ICSAN’s operations over the next two years.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit, themed “Governance and Business Innovation in Contemporary Times,” addressed current issues in governance and innovation.

Jacob noted that one of the primary barriers to digital transformation is the cost of digitalisation, necessitating the need for ICSAN to develop locally tailored software for Nigerian company secretaries, administrators, and governance practitioners.

“As President of the Fintech Association of Nigeria, we are committed to collaborating with ICSAN to adopt the right technologies and train secretaries to use them effectively,” he said.

Jacob added that digital software would enable secretaries to track compliance, ensure data security, and protect stakeholder privacy.

He also encouraged secretaries to leverage technology to offer insights and strategic recommendations to company boards.

“Digital adoption must be optimised, with secretaries working closely with boards to facilitate a seamless transition.

“Secretaries should stay informed about emerging technologies and implement the best tools available.”

Ms. Efosa Ewere, Chairperson of the ICSAN Lagos Chapter, stated that governance and innovation are increasingly interconnected in today’s fast-paced world.

She emphasised that this synergy shapes the resilience and success of organisations and influences society as a whole.

Ewere noted that Nigeria’s economic uncertainties and rapid technological shifts require governance professionals to rethink frameworks, fostering innovation while ensuring accountability and ethics.

“In today’s context, good governance goes beyond compliance; it’s about creating an environment where innovation thrives while maintaining transparency and integrity.

“We need governance frameworks that encourage creativity and safeguard stakeholders’ interests”.

Mr Hakeem Ogunniran, Chairman of Lagos Building Investment Co. Plc, stressed that understanding the link between governance and business innovation is essential for a successful business environment.

He explained that innovation is a means to meet organisational demands and achieve market dominance.

Ogunniran also noted that the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) opens new avenues for corporate governance professionals, though he cautioned that they must be aware of AI’s limitations and potential misuse. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma