Olusegun Osunkeye, a prominent voice in corporate governance and former President of the Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria (SCGN), delivered a compelling call to action for ethical leadership and sustainable corporate practices. Speaking at a public lecture organized by the SCGN, Osunkeye stressed the critical need for leaders to prioritize long-term institutional health and ethical conduct over the pursuit of short-term financial gains. He argued that true leadership legacies are built not on quarterly reports but on the enduring values instilled within an organization and the positive impact created for future generations. The lecture, titled “Leadership Legacies: Advancing Good Governance for the Next Generation,” served as a platform to honor retired directors Tijjani Borodo, Ibrahim Dikko, and Adetunji Oyebanji, while simultaneously emphasizing the crucial role of responsible leadership in shaping Nigeria’s corporate landscape.
Osunkeye’s address centered on the concept of good governance as a deeply ingrained organizational culture, rather than a mere collection of slogans or superficial pronouncements. He emphasized the importance of translating governance principles into tangible actions and measurable behaviors that align with the organization’s strategic objectives. He argued that corporate culture is built through consistent ethical conduct, transparent operations, and a commitment to accountability. Leaders must actively “behave themselves into the future,” ensuring that their actions reflect the values they espouse and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the organization, rather than focusing solely on short-term financial performance. He underscored that leadership legacies are defined not by quarterly results, but by the enduring impact on the organization, its people, and the values it embodies.
A key theme in Osunkeye’s message was the urgent need to combat corruption within the corporate sphere. He called for the establishment of robust governance structures designed to institutionalize integrity and prevent unethical practices. He urged both private sector leaders and regulatory bodies to proactively address the root causes of governance failures, rather than simply reacting to their consequences. This proactive approach, he argued, is essential for creating a sustainable and ethical business environment that fosters trust and long-term growth. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of mentorship and succession planning, highlighting the responsibility of current leaders to groom future generations of ethical and competent leaders.
The concept of stewardship was central to Osunkeye’s vision of effective leadership. He urged leaders to view themselves as temporary custodians of institutions with enduring value, recognizing that their influence may wane over time, but their impact should resonate through the organizations they lead, the individuals they empower, and the values they champion. He advocated for a transformational leadership style characterized by vision, a commitment to positive change, and a dedication to leaving a lasting legacy. This approach, he suggested, requires leaders to prioritize ethical principles and values in all their decisions and actions, ensuring that their impact transcends their individual tenure.
Osunkeye’s address was not merely a theoretical exposition on good governance; it was a passionate plea for action. He challenged leaders to move beyond rhetoric and embrace a proactive, values-driven approach to leadership. He stressed the importance of cultivating a culture of integrity and transparency, emphasizing that ethical conduct is not just a legal requirement, but a fundamental prerequisite for long-term organizational success and societal well-being. He called for a collective effort from both the private and public sectors to strengthen governance frameworks, promote ethical practices, and build a future where corporate leadership is synonymous with integrity and sustainable value creation.
The event, hosted by the current SCGN President, Mohammad Ahmad, highlighted the significance of recognizing and celebrating leaders who have exemplified these principles throughout their careers. By honoring retired directors Borodo, Dikko, and Oyebanji, the SCGN underscored the importance of learning from past experiences and building upon the foundations laid by those who have demonstrated a commitment to ethical leadership and good governance. The lecture served as a powerful reminder that true leadership is about more than just achieving financial targets; it is about building lasting legacies of integrity, sustainability, and positive social impact. It provided a roadmap for future generations of leaders to navigate the complex challenges of the corporate world while upholding the highest ethical standards and contributing to a more equitable and prosperous future.
