The Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD) Nigeria, South-West Zone on Tuesday, held a landmark investiture ceremony, installing High Chief Olabode Mustapha, the Osi of Egbaland, as the 2nd Chairman of the zone.
The event, which was attended by notable personalities, also featured the swearing-in of other executive committee members and a lecture addressing Nigeria’s food security challenges.
The ceremony was presided over by Alhaji Tijjani Borodo, the President of Chartered Institute of Directors,(CIoD Nigeria), who described the occasion as a turning point in the institute’s efforts to deepen its impact in the South-West region.
Other executive members sworn in include Dr. Olubola Aikulola as Vice Chairman, Walter Emiedafe as Honorary Assistant Secretary, Oluwaseyi Ogunseye as Honorary Treasurer, Olori Omosalewa Aboderin-Olubusi as Honorary Secretary, and Rotimi Olashore as Public Relations Officer.
In his address, Borodo emphasized the significance of the investiture, stating, “Today, we celebrate a new chapter in the history of the Abeokuta branch. This event represents the institute’s unwavering commitment to promoting sound corporate governance, leadership excellence, and ethical business practices.”
He praised the dedication and leadership qualities of High Chief Bode Mustapha, describing him as a leader with a proven track record. “Our new Chairman, Hon. (High Chief) Dr. Olabode Akeem Mustapha, F.CIoD, MHR, has contributed immensely to the growth of this institute. His leadership, experience, and integrity make him the ideal person to take this branch to greater heights,” he added.
Borodo further paid tribute to the branch’s late pioneer Chairman, Iyalode Alaba Lawson, MFR, F.CIoD, acknowledging her foundational role in establishing the Abeokuta branch. “Before I proceed, let us honor the memory of Iyalode Alaba Lawson, whose vision and efforts laid the groundwork for today’s success. Her legacy will continue to inspire us,” he said, as attendees observed a moment of silence in her honor.
The CIoD President outlined the strategic mandates for the newly inaugurated executive team, urging them to prioritize proactive engagement, innovation, and collaboration. “As we embark on this journey, I call on the leadership and members of this branch to embrace innovation and creativity. Challenge the status quo, think outside the box, and pursue bold and visionary solutions to the challenges confronting the business community,” Borodo advised.
He also highlighted the critical role of governance in shaping Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape. “Good governance is the backbone of progress, and as directors, we must lead by example. Together, we can drive positive change and set a new standard for corporate excellence in the South-West region and beyond,” he concluded.
Adding intellectual depth to the event, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Professor Olusola Kehinde, delivered a lecture titled “Innovative Strategies for Achieving Food Security in Nigeria: Challenges and Opportunities.”
Professor Kehinde provided a detailed analysis of Nigeria’s food security crisis, citing the alarming statistic that over 133 million Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty.
He called for urgent and innovative interventions, noting that the government’s current efforts, including the release of grains from strategic reserves, were insufficient to address the nation’s food demands.
“While the declaration of a state of emergency on food security by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a commendable step, it must be matched with decisive actions. We need a comprehensive approach that includes modern agricultural modeling, climate adaptation strategies, and the integration of technology to transform our food systems,” Kehinde stated.
The professor highlighted the importance of agricultural modeling, describing it as a tool for optimizing resources and addressing the impacts of climate change on agriculture.
“Agricultural modeling offers a pathway to sustainable food production by simulating crop, soil, and climate interactions. It is time to transition from supply-driven to demand-driven approaches to meet the aspirations of our farmers and stakeholders,” he emphasized.
He also recommended greater investments in ICT, big data, and machine learning to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of crop models.
“These technologies can help design sustainable agricultural systems that cater to the future demands of our population. The next wave of agricultural modeling in Nigeria must focus on addressing gaps in data and integrating user-friendly tools to benefit a broader range of stakeholders,” Kehinde concluded.
In his acceptance speech, High Chief Bode Mustapha expressed gratitude for the trust reposed in him and outlined his vision for the South West Zone.
“It is with a deep sense of responsibility and commitment that I accept the honor to serve as the 2nd Chairman of this esteemed branch. This marks a significant milestone not only for CIoD but also for the entire South-West region,” he said.
Mustapha pledged to prioritize the promotion of effective corporate governance, leadership development, and member engagement.
“This chapter will serve as a hub for enhancing directors’ capabilities, fostering professional growth, and promoting ethical practices. We aim to strengthen our network and impact within the region,” he noted.
He also acknowledged the financial challenges facing the branch and called for continued support from CIoD Nigeria. “While we are optimistic about the future, we cannot ignore the hurdles ahead. Financial limitations have somewhat hindered our momentum, but with the backing of the CIoD Council and our stakeholders, I am confident we will overcome these challenges and achieve our objectives,” Mustapha added.
The new chairman urged all members to work collaboratively toward achieving the institute’s goals. “Our collective efforts and shared commitment to excellence will ensure that this branch not only thrives but sets a benchmark for others to follow. Together, we can build a stronger, more impactful CIoD,” he concluded.
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, represented by the Commissioner for Trade, Industry, and Investment, Adebola Sofela, commended the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD) for its unwavering commitment to championing good governance and ethical leadership. He noted that these principles are fundamental to driving the socio-economic progress of any community.
Speaking on the newly inaugurated South-West Chairman, High Chief Bode Mustapha, Abiodun described him as “a distinguished intellectual, a respected Nigerian, and a seasoned professional who possesses the vision and capacity to advance the institute’s goals both in the South-West region and across the nation.”
Dignitaries who graced the event included the Chairman of Punch Nigeria Limited, Mrs Angela Emuwa; the Ogun State Head of Service, Mr Kehunde Onasanya, represented by Mr Jola Oyeneye; the Proprietor of Crescent University, Abeokuta, Mr Segun Ajibola (SAN); Director-General and council member of the Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria, Mr Dele Alimi; and the newly elected Chairman of the Abeokuta North Local Government, Mr Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo.
