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September 18, 2025 by Chinyere Okoroafor
Lawyer and corporate governance expert, Prof. Fabian Ajogwu, has urged leaders to embrace purpose-driven and adaptive governance that is enduring.
Delivering a keynote address at the 19th Presidential Investiture of Otunba Adetunji Oyebanji as president of Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria in Lagos, Ajogwu said true leadership is measured not by titles or wealth but by service, integrity, and systems that outlive individuals.
“Legacy is not about monuments or riches but about institutions we strengthen and values we pass on,” he said, calling on leaders to embed Environmental, Social and Governance principles and mentor the next generation.
He warned that centralised, traditional governance cannot address corruption, digital disruption, climate change, and others, stressing the need for governance anchored on sustainability, resilience and ethical decision-making.
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Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, lauded the institute for promoting corporate governance, describing it as a pillar of economic growth.
She hoped Oyebanji would consolidate on past achievements while driving collaboration and mentoring younger professionals.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, represented by Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Bumi Jaiyeoba, hailed Oyebanji, saying he is “a man of conviction, honour and selflessness.”
He urged business leaders to embrace accountability, innovation, stressing legacy is defined by impact, not tenure.
Adeleke reaffirmed Osun’s industrialisation drive and invited stakeholders to its Investment Roundtable next month.
Chair of the ceremony and Vice Chancellor of Pan-Atlantic University, Prof. Enase Okonedo, said Oyebanji’s four-decade career in oil and gas as well as his “quiet but firm leadership” equipped him to lead the institute at a time governance faces greater scrutiny.
She urged members to recommit to ethical leadership.
In his acceptance speech, Oyebanji pledged to strengthen the institute through his three-point ICE agenda — Implementation, Collaboration and Engagement.
He promised to enforce the IoD Establishment Act, launch the Chartered Directors’ Certification Programme in 2026, and reposition the IoD Centre for Corporate Governance as a centre of excellence.
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