Lagos: Experts have urged business leaders and directors to cultivate leadership that transcends generations through mentorship, institutional governance, and value-driven decision-making to build enduring legacies. They gave the advice at the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD) Fellows evening in Lagos with the theme: ‘From Vision to Legacy: Cultivating Leadership that Transcends Generations’.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Chairman of Sunu Assurance Nigeria Plc, Mr. Kyari Bukar, noted that as industries evolved and with societies demanding greater accountability, the measure of true leadership had extended beyond quarterly profits. He emphasized that true leadership now involves the ability to build systems and cultures that endure over time and across generations. Bukar pointed out that organizations often crumble after leadership transitions due to weak succession planning, stressing that a leader who fails to raise successors is essentially writing a business obituary.
Bukar asserted that great leaders do not just occupy positions but create pathways as architects of possibilities, adding values, systems, and cultures that withstand the test of time. He stated that effective leaders translate dreams into reality through sound governance structures, transparent processes, strong boards, succession planning, and institutional memory. He listed practical steps for new fellows to follow on generational leadership, including creating legacy statements, institutionalizing governance, and mentoring at least five successors. Additionally, they could champion sustainability, engage nationally by volunteering, write journals and books, and balance profit with purpose.
The President of CIoD, Mr. Adetunji Oyebanji, stated that true leadership goes beyond personal achievements to building values, systems, and people who would sustain positive change for future generations. Oyebanji noted that while a vision may be the spark of an idea, the true test of a leader lies in transforming that vision into a legacy. He urged the newly conferred fellows, honorary fellows, and distinguished fellows to uphold integrity, professionalism, and sound corporate governance. Oyebanji reaffirmed CIoD’s commitment to promoting excellence and ethical leadership in the boardroom and across sectors, expressing confidence that their contributions will drive positive change and ensure the success of the public and private sectors in Nigeria.
Alhaji Tijjani Borodo, the Chairman of the Fellows and Awards Committee at CIoD, described the theme of the event as timely and inspiring, emphasizing that while vision provides direction, legacy gives meaning. Borodo said the conferment of new fellows signifies both recognition of past accomplishments and renewed trust in their capacity to inspire responsible leadership and nation-building. He urged the honorees to continue mentoring others, strengthening institutions, and setting standards that promote good governance and accountability in Nigeria. Borodo concluded by welcoming the new fellows with respect and admiration and expressed confidence that their association would further enrich the ideals promoted by the institute.