Directors have been charged to build leadership that transcends generations through mentorship and institutionalisation. Chairman, Sunu Assurance Nigeria Plc, Kyari Bukar, advised during Fellows and Awards Night, organised by the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD) Nigeria, where he spoke on ‘From Vision to Legacy: Cultivating Leadership that Transcends Generations’.
Noting that if legacy was to endure, he said it must be anchored on timeless values of integrity, resilience, and service, stating that directors must think beyond profit and go on to sustainability.
According to him, true leadership had transcended into the ability to build systems and cultures that endured over time for several generations.
Bukar asserted that great leaders do not just occupy positions but create pathways as architects of possibilities, adding values, systems, and cultures that survive over time.
He stated that effective leaders translated dreams into reality through sound governance structures, transparent processes, strong boards, succession planning, and institutional memory.
Bukar listed practical steps for new fellows to follow on generational leadership, including creating a legacy statement, institutionalising governance, and mentoring at least five successors.
“We must learn from international best practices while adapting them to local realities as the true measure of leadership is not in title held, wealth amassed, but lives touched, institutions strengthened, and values preserved,” he said.
President, CIoD, Adetunji Oyebanji, urged the newly conferred fellows, honorary fellows and distinguished fellows to uphold integrity, professionalism and sound corporate governance. He reaffirmed CIoD’s commitment to promoting excellence and ethical leadership in the boardroom and across sectors.
“As leaders in your respective fields, you have the power to shape the future of our nation. I am confident that your contributions will be invaluable in driving positive change and ensuring the success of the public and private sectors in Nigeria,” he said.
Chairman, Fellows and Awards Committee, CIoD, Alhaji Tijjani Borodo, described the theme as timely and inspiring, stressing that while vision gave direction, legacy gave meaning.
He said the conferment of new fellows signified both recognition of past accomplishments and renewed trust in their capacity to inspire responsible leadership and nation-building.
Borodo urged the honourees to continue to mentor others, strengthen institutions and set standards that promote good governance and accountability in Nigeria.
