As discussions around influence, leadership and representation continue to reshape boardrooms across Africa, the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD) Nigeria will host its 2026 Women Directors’ Biennial Conference in Lagos on July 1, at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Cultural and Creative Arts, Iganmu.

Organised by the Women’s Group of the Institute, the conference brings together leading women in governance, business, and public service to examine how influence is built and exercised at the highest levels of decision-making.

With the theme: “From Presence to Power: Advancing Women’s Influence in the Boardroom,” this year’s edition will explore the transition from representation to real authority, and the role of women leaders in shaping strategy, institutions, and economic direction across sectors.

The conference will be chaired by F.CIoD, President and Chairman of the Governing Council of CIoD Nigeria, Otunba Adetunji Oyebanji, who will serve as chief host, while the F.CIoD, Chairperson of the Women’s Sectoral Group of the CIoD, Mrs. Ronke Sokefun, will serve as host.

Speaking ahead of the conference, Sokefun said: “Women have made significant strides in leadership, but the next challenge is translating representation into influence. This conference is designed to equip and connect women leaders with the ideas, networks and strategies required to shape decisions, drive growth and contribute meaningfully to the future of our institutions and economy. We are bringing together voices that have not only broken barriers but continue to redefine what effective leadership looks like.”

The keynote address will be delivered by the former Governor of Lagos State and former Minister of Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN while Mrs Ajoritsedere Awosika, will be the Special Guest of Honour.

The programme will also feature leading voices across business and public service, including Dr. Karl Toriola, Mrs. FunkeAmobi, Prof. Olayinka David-West, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, Mrs. Bola Tinubu, Dr. Alex Irune, Mrs. Sola Adesakin alongside other senior executives and thought leaders across sectors.

Through a keynote presentation, executive roundtables and panel discussions, participants will gain practical insights into navigating pathways to boardroom leadership, strengthening governance and institutional resilience, and leveraging influence to drive strategic outcomes. Discussions will also explore the intersection of leadership, wealth creation and decision-making, while providing opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange and collaboration among directors, executives and emerging leaders.

About400 directors, C-suite executives, policymakers, entrepreneurs and professionals are expected to attend, creating opportunities for dialogue, networking and collaboration across sectors.