Leaders from diverse sectors have addressed Nigeria’s leadership challenges and charted strategies for sustainable governance and long-term national development.
The conversations took place at the inaugural National Leadership Dialogue (NLD) in Lagos, themed “Reimagining Leadership in a Changing World.”
The event was organised by the African Leadership Initiative West Africa (ALIWA), a member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network, a worldwide community of more than 4,000 values-driven leaders committed to tackling society’s most pressing issues.
Panels, highlights
At the dialogue, participants explored the core values, institutional structures, and collaborative strategies needed to manage complex social, economic, and governance challenges effectively.
The programme featured two main panels. The first focused on cultivating resilient leadership for the 21st century, emphasising ethical decision-making, inclusivity, and effective leadership under pressure.
The second panel examined how to strengthen institutional systems through governance reforms, technological integration, partnerships, and structural improvements.
Discussions underscored the importance of principled leaders and robust, accountable institutions as foundations for sustainable national progress.
2026 economic outlook
Additional sessions included a 2026 economic outlook presented by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and an ALIWA Fellow Impact Presentation featuring Amina Oyagbola, Founder of WISCAR, and Fabian Ajogwu, founder of the Society for Corporate Governance, highlighting tangible results of ALIWA’s initiatives across institutions and communities.
At the event, Soji Apampa, president of ALIWA Nigeria, emphasised that effective leadership should be grounded in strong principles.
He highlighted that true leaders must prioritise honesty, transparency, and tangible results over mere gestures or appearances.
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“In times of uncertainty, leadership must be anchored in integrity, clarity, and a shared commitment to practical action, not symbolism. Platforms like the ALIWA National Leadership Dialogue are critical to shaping leaders who can define reality honestly and work collectively to deliver meaningful change for our country”, said Mr Apampa.
Foundation of effective leadership.
Additionally, Okechukwu Enelamah, an ALIWA Fellow, former minister of industry, trade and investment, and current Chairman of African Capital Alliance, stressed that integrity forms the foundation of effective leadership.
He noted that leadership integrity cannot rely solely on well-meaning intentions.
Mr Enelamah said, “It must be reinforced by strong systems, transparency, and accountability—because leadership, when exercised as stewardship, has the power to transform nations.”
