By Niyi Jacobs
The Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria (CIoD Nigeria) today hosted a press conference at its National Secretariat in Lagos to formally announce the 2025 Annual Directors’ Conference (ADC2025), the Institute’s flagship gathering of business leaders, policymakers, regulators, and thought leaders.
The two-day conference, scheduled for 22–23 October 2025 at the Abuja Continental Hotel, will be held under the theme: “Leading Through Change: Building Sustainable and Inclusive Enterprises.”
Speaking at the press briefing, Otunba Adetunji A. Oyebanji, FCIoD, President & Chairman of the Governing Council of CIoD Nigeria, described the conference as the cornerstone of the Institute’s advocacy efforts:
“This period of change is not merely a threat; it is a profound opportunity, an opportunity to forge a new path, redefine our purpose, and build institutions that are not only resilient but more impactful and reflective of the world we serve.”
He emphasized that the conference will provide a platform for directors and policymakers to address pressing issues facing the economy, with a focus on good governance, inclusivity, and sustainability.
In his remarks, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, MCIoD, Chairman of the National Organising Committee (NOC), highlighted the continuity of the Institute’s thought leadership:
“This year, 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.”
The conference will feature an impressive lineup of dignitaries and speakers, including:
Special Guest of Honour: His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Conference Chairman: Dr. Shamsuddeen Usman, CON, Chairman, Ministry of Finance Incorporated.
Keynote Speaker: Mr. Kola Adesina, MCIoD, Group Managing Director, Sahara Power Group.
Guests of Honour including Hon. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy; Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission; Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, mni, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation; and Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning.
The programme will also include a special highlight: the “Business Meets Government Dinner” on Thursday, October 23, 2025, providing an exclusive platform for collaboration and dialogue between business leaders and government officials.
With a carefully curated lineup of plenaries, panel sessions, and networking opportunities, ADC2025 promises to equip directors, policymakers, and stakeholders with the insights and tools to navigate uncertainty, embrace innovation, and build sustainable enterprises.
Sponsors and Partners
The Institute expressed gratitude to its Headline Sponsor, FirstBank of Nigeria Ltd, along with other sponsors, partners, and media organizations for their consistent support and commitment to advancing corporate governance in Nigeria.
About CIoD Nigeria
The Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria (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.
