By Temilola Atolagbe

As businesses around the globe confront rising interest rates, inflation, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical uncertainties, this year’s Annual Corporate Governance Conference will delve into how businesses can adapt their governance frameworks to thrive amid such challenges.

Organised by the Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria, SCGN, and slated for on October 10, 2024, in Lagos, the conference will examine the vital role of governance in steering companies through the current global economic landscape and ensuring their long-term resilience.

Chief Executive Officer, CEO of the SCGN, Mrs. Chioma Mordi, who briefed, newsmen, said: “This year’s conference comes at a crucial time for businesses.

“As the global economic environment becomes increasingly volatile, strong governance structures are no longer optional but essential for survival.

“Our focus will be on equipping businesses with the strategies they need to stay resilient in the face of rising financial and operational pressures.”

Chairman of the SCGN, Mr. Muhammad Ahmed, stressed the importance of collective action.

He said: “Good corporate governance has the power to stabilise not just businesses but entire economies.

“This conference will bring together thought leaders from across sectors to share insights on how governance can be the driving force for economic recovery and corporate sustainability.”

The keynote address will be delivered by Mrs. Bola Adesola, Chairperson of Ecobank Nigeria Limited.

Other notable speakers include the Managing Director of Ministry of Finance Incorporated, Dr. Armstrong Takang; Dean of Lagos Business School, Prof. Chris Ogbechie; and Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida.

Acting Director General of PenCom, Ms. Omolola Oloworanran will address governance in the pensions industry, while Head of AI at PA Consulting UK, Mr. Alwin Magimay, will speak on the integration of artificial intelligence in corporate governance.

Other speakers include Mr. Gianni Moor, Faculty at Swiss Board School, Switzerland; Mrs. Tomi Adepoju, Partner and Head of Enterprise Bank and ESG Services at KPMG Advisory Services; Mr. Uyi Akpata, former Country Senior Partner of PwC Nigeria; and Dr. Ona Newton, Founder of Tobams Group.

Mr. Alex-Adedipe Adeleke, Managing Partner at DOA Law Firm and Mrs. Yewande Giwa, Head of Governance and Sustainability at Honeywell Group, will moderate the plenary sessions.

SCGN said the conference will explore key topics such as economic uncertainty and governance, addressing how companies can implement strategies to cope with rising inflation and interest rates.

“It will also emphasise the importance of sustainability and ESG principles in achieving long-term corporate success.

“Global best practices in governance will be highlighted, with experts sharing lessons from international markets that can be applied in Nigeria’s unique economic environment.

Furthermore, the event will focus on the critical role of public sector governance in driving national economic recovery and reform.

“This year’s conference promises to be a must-attend event for business leaders, policymakers, governance professionals, and stakeholders across sectors.

“Attendees will gain practical insights from governance experts, engage in thought-provoking discussions, and discover actionable strategies to enhance corporate resilience and sustainability in today’s challenging economic environment,” Mrs. Mordi said.

SCGN is a not-for-profit institution dedicated to promoting best practices in corporate governance.

Through its advocacy, research, and educational initiatives, SCGN plays a crucial role in shaping governance frameworks for both public and private sectors, ensuring businesses and institutions are well-positioned to thrive in today’s complex global economy.