CIoD Links Economic Growth to Strong Leadership

Bimbo Ashiru, Chairman of the National Organising Committee, 2025 CIoD Annual Directors’ Conference

The Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD) Nigeria has highlighted the critical role of sound governance and effective leadership in driving national economic growth and sustainable enterprise development.

Speaking at the 2025 CIoD Annual Directors’ Conference in Abuja, Chairman of the National Organising Committee, Bimbo Ashiru, said the theme, “Leading Through Change: Building Sustainable and Inclusive Enterprise,” reflects the responsibilities facing today’s boardrooms.
He noted that good governance is a practical tool for fostering economic resilience, encouraging critical engagement, and defining best practices that distinguish thriving organisations from stagnant ones.

President and Chairman of Council, Otunba Adetunji Oyebanji, emphasised CIoD’s mission to develop ethical, competent, and visionary leaders who can enhance organisational performance and national prosperity.

He urged directors to balance profitability with responsibility, growth with inclusion, and innovation with integrity, while integrating women, youth, and vulnerable groups into productive sectors such as renewable energy and fintech.

Highlighting the role of MSMEs, which account for nearly 50 per cent of Nigeria’s GDP and 75 per cent of employment, Oyebanji acknowledged challenges such as infrastructure deficits, policy inconsistencies, and limited access to finance.

He called for stronger public-private partnerships, capacity building, and innovative financing models to scale inclusive enterprises and ensure long-term national development.