In an era where uncertainty tests the strength of leadership, the Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria (CIoD) is setting the stage for one of the most anticipated business gatherings of the year — the 2025 Annual Directors’ Conference (ADC2025).
Scheduled to take place from October 22 to 23, 2025, at the Abuja Continental Hotel, the conference promises to gather a powerful mix of corporate executives, policymakers, innovators, and regulators under one unifying theme: “Leading Through Change: Building Sustainable and Inclusive Enterprises.”
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, the President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Otunba Adetunji Oyebanji, described the upcoming event as more than a meeting — a movement toward reimagining how leadership can shape Nigeria’s economic resilience.
He explained that the annual conference stands at the heart of the Institute’s advocacy for responsible leadership and effective corporate governance, emphasizing that the theme reflects the urgent need for directors to adapt, innovate, and lead inclusively in times of transition.
“Change is not just a challenge; it’s a chance to redefine our values and build institutions that mirror the evolving world we serve,” Oyebanji remarked, calling for leaders to embrace transformation rather than fear it.
Also addressing journalists, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, Chairman of the National Organising Committee, noted that the conference will push the boundaries of thought leadership by urging directors to “lead through change, not around it.”
“This year’s gathering is a call to action. We’re challenging business leaders to build enterprises that are not only innovative and sustainable but inclusive — enterprises that contribute meaningfully to nation-building,” Ashiru said.
The two-day event will feature President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Special Guest of Honour and Dr. Shamsuddeen Usman as the Conference Chairman. The Keynote Address will be delivered by Mr. Kola Adesina, Group Managing Director of Sahara Power Group, setting the tone for discussions around innovation, governance, and sustainability.
Among the distinguished guests expected are Hon. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy; Dr. Emomotimi Agama, Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission; Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation; and Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning.
A highlight of the event will be the exclusive “Business Meets Government Dinner” on October 23, providing a private space for dialogue between corporate leaders and key policymakers — an initiative designed to bridge the gap between enterprise and governance.
Oyebanji assured that the 2025 edition has been meticulously curated to deliver high-value plenaries, panel sessions, and networking opportunities aimed at equipping attendees with the insight to thrive amid global shifts. He also extended appreciation to FirstBank of Nigeria Limited, the conference’s Headline Sponsor, and other partners whose support continues to strengthen the Institute’s mission of advancing ethical leadership and governance in Nigeria.
As the nation continues to navigate economic complexities, the CIoD’s Annual Directors’ Conference stands as a reminder that strong, ethical, and visionary leadership remains the compass guiding Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable prosperity.
