…..Schedule For Abuja, October 22–23
The Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria (CIoD Nigeria) has announced the 2025 Annual Directors’ Conference (ADC2025), the Institute’s flagship gathering of business leaders, policymakers, regulators, and thought leaders.
The two-day conference with the theme: “Leading Through Change: Building Sustainable and Inclusive Enterprises is scheduled to hold Wednesday 22nd and Thursday 23rd of October 2025, at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
Speaking at a press conference held at the CIoD Nigeria National Secretariat in Lagos on Wednesday, President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIoD Nigeria, Otunba Adetunji Adetokunbo Oyebanji said that the 2025 Conference is the cornerstone of the Institute’s Advocacy efforts, adding that, it serves as a pivotal platform for dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders from various sectors, uniting directors, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and thought leaders to address the pressing issues facing our economy.
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Reaffirming the stance of CIoD Nigeria, Oyebanji said that as a leader in advocating for sound Corporate Governance practices in Nigeria, CIoD Nigeria remains steadfast in its mission to promote global best practices in governance and ethical leadership.
“Our institute serves as a beacon for directors, stakeholders, and organizations committed to enhancing their governance frameworks.”
He added: “In this role, we recognize the importance of continuous engagement with all relevant stakeholders across both public and private sectors.
This collaboration is fundamental to our mission and enables us to create a robust ecosystem for ethical leadership and sound Corporate Governance.
The President said that the theme for this year’s conference: “Leading through change: Building Sustainable and Inclusive Enterprises,” is a call to action.
“The very foundations of our industries are shifting with unprecedented speed. We are navigating a media landscape redefined by algorithmic feeds, instant information, and a global conversation that is both interconnected and, at times, deeply polarized.
“The traditional business models that sustained us for generations are being challenged, and public trust, the bedrock of our profession, is constantly under scrutiny.”
He disclosed further that, for many, this era of disruption is seen as a threat and to a certain extent, it is. It threatens complacency, it challenges outdated practices, and it demands that we move beyond the status quo. “But I urge you to see it differently. This period of change is not merely a threat; it is a profound opportunity, an opportunity to forge a new path, to redefine our purpose, and to build institutions that are not only resilient but are also more impactful and more reflective of the world we serve.
He however said to build an inclusive enterprise, we must confront our biases, challenge our assumptions, and be intentional in our efforts. “It means actively seeking out diverse talent, fostering an equitable workplace culture, and ensuring that our coverage is fair, nuanced, and representative. It means telling stories that matter to all communities, not just the ones that have historically been at the centre of our attention.”
Giving highlight of the Conference, Otunba Oyebanji said that the opening ceremony will have as chairman a revered boardroom guru, Dr. Shamsuddeen Usman, CON, Chairman, Ministry of Finance Incorporated.
“The Guests of Honour include, Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack.
“The highlight of the opening session will be the keynote address that will be delivered by Mr. Kola Adeshina, Group Managing Director, Sahara Power Group a distinguished figure in the business community with decades of experience that traverses academia, insurance, finance, energy, trade and diplomacy.
“This year’s conference will feature an esteemed lineup of speakers, including distinguished business leaders, corporate executives, and thought leaders from Nigeria and beyond. Their insights will provide attendees with valuable perspectives on navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the business terrain.
In addition, we are excited to announce a special highlight of the conference: the “Business Meets Government Dinner” on Thursday October 23rd at 6:00 p.m. This exclusive event will serve as a vital opportunity for business leaders and government officials to come together, fostering collaboration and meaningful dialogue that can lead to impactful partnerships.
The Conference, according to him, promises to be an invaluable opportunity for attendees to engage with industry experts, network with peers, and gain insights that will empower their boards for success in an ever-evolving landscape.
“By participating in this conference, you are not only investing in your own professional development but also contributing to the broader mission of promoting sound governance in Nigeria,” he added.
In his remarks, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, M.CIoD, Chairman, National Organizing Committee, (NOC), 2025 of the Conference reiterated that the flagship event of the Institute has, over the years, become one of the most respected gatherings of business leaders, policymakers, regulators, and thought leaders in Nigeria and beyond.
“It is a platform where the most pressing issues affecting governance, enterprise, and national economic development are examined in depth and seriousness.
Otunba Ashiru who was represented by Chairman, Fundraising Committee (NOC), Mrs. Ronke Sokefun added that the theme is not accidental; rather it reflects the nation’s reality and the responsibilities of its leaders.
“Our country is undergoing economic restructuring, digital acceleration, and demographic shifts that require leaders in both public and private sectors to guide organisations with clarity, ethics, and foresight,” she stated.
She continued: “Equally important, this year’s theme is part of a continuing journey of thought leadership by the Institute, a deliberate sequence that reinforces our role in nation building
“In 2022, we explored “Corporate Governance and Digital Transformation: Leading Purposefully for Growth and Sustainability; 2023, we examined “Economic Diversification and Transformation: The Role of Corporate Governance and 2024, we addressed “Corporate Governance as a Catalyst for Economic Recovery, Growth, and Development.”
She said that together, these themes show the Institute’s consistent effort to align corporate governance with the national agenda. “They demonstrate our conviction that governance is not just about boardroom efficiency, but about how enterprises can strengthen Nigeria’s economy, foster inclusivity, and secure our collective future.
“This year continues that mission. We are clearly saying that leaders must survive change, lead through it, and build enterprises that are sustainable, innovative, and inclusive. This is how we contribute as directors and leaders to the urgent task of nation building,” she said.
Listing dignitaries to expect at the conference, Sokefun said the Institute carefully curated a line-up of outstanding speakers, discussants, and moderators who bring with them diverse experience and thought leadership and they include: Dr. Emomotimi Agama, DG, SEC; Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, CON, HoS; Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education; Mr. Adedotun Sulaiman, former Chairman of the Financial Reporting Council; Aisha Rimi, Executive Secretary/CEO, Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission; Mr. Kunle Elebute, Chairman, General Capital Advisory Services Ltd and Mr. Urum Kalu (UK) Eke, Chairman of IoDCCG, among others
“This rich blend of policymakers, regulators, executives, and entrepreneurs guarantees that the discussions will be practical, inspiring, and solution-driven,” she stated.
She said that the 2025 ADC will provide directors, executives, and policymakers with the tools and knowledge needed to respond to uncertainty while embracing innovation and building sustainable enterprises.
“Our goal is to ensure that Directors, policymakers, and stakeholders in both the private and public sectors of the economy leave this conference better equipped to strengthen ethical leadership and build sustainable enterprises, while driving national economic progress.
In doing so, the Institute reaffirms its role as a partner in Nigeria’s long-term economic transformation,” she stated.
Speaking earlier, DG/CEO, CIoD, Dr. Taiwo Nolas-Alausa reiterated the Institute’s commitment to corporate governance, adding that the Conference remains the most prestigious platform for dialogue on corporate governance, ethical leadership and enterprise development in Nigeria.
“Today’s conference set the stage for what promises to be a landmark event in a journey of corporate governance and leadership in our nation,” he said.
Acting Group Head, Marketing/Corporate Communications, FirstBank, Olayinka Ijabiyi in his remarks said that as the lead sponsor of the event, this affirmed the Bank’s commitment to leadership excellence. “This partnership, built on our successful engagement last year when we also served as sponsors for CIoD Nigeria.”
He said that the continued support for the Institute is a clear demonstration of their belief in the power of collaboration to shape Nigeria’s corporate practices across both public and private sectors.
“With a legacy spanning 131 years, our commitment to leadership excellence, corporate governance and sustainable business practices has been the driving force behind our success over the years.
“As Nigeria’s premier financial institution, we are uniquely positioned and well equipped to empower Nigeria’s business leaders with the tools, insights and networks needed to navigate today’s complex economic landscape.”
“First Bank will continue to champion initiatives that foster visionary leadership and enable business conduct across all business locations. We believe that strong institutions are built on the pillars of integrity, innovation and inclusive leadership and we are proud to help in advancing the frontiers of corporate governance in Nigeria.
“We look forward to meaningful engagements, impactful dialogues and shared progress, which CIoD Nigeria is known for and we look forward to our continued partnership with the distinguished organization,” he added.
The CIoD Nigeria is the premier professional body for directors and business leaders in Nigeria. The Institute is dedicated to promoting sound corporate governance, ethical leadership, and sustainable enterprise practices across both public and private sectors.
BV.
