Ex-BOI boss urges firms to anchor growth on integrity

Former Bank of Industry CEO Olukayode Pitan has urged business leaders and entrepreneurs to prioritize integrity, transparency, and strong governance in building sustainable businesses and institutions. Speaking at the second edition of the Leadership & Legacy Series hosted by Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, Pitan shared insights from his diverse career experiences.

He emphasized that integrity is a crucial asset for leaders, as lost reputation and credibility are hard to regain. Pitan highlighted the importance of character, consistency, and principled decision-making in achieving sustainable success, stressing that it goes beyond mere competence and achievement. He also underscored the significance of transparency, accountability, and robust governance in fostering long-term value and institutional impact.

Pitan noted that enduring legacies are built not only on success but also on how that success was achieved. He encouraged leaders to uphold ethical standards, even in challenging circumstances, and urged entrepreneurs and professionals to build their careers and institutions on trust, credibility, and values. Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria's acting CEO, Ayodeji Adelagun, highlighted the bank's commitment to connecting clients and stakeholders with accomplished leaders through such events.

He stated that these discussions have shifted from merely commercial success to encompassing stewardship, succession planning, wealth preservation, and societal impact. Adelagun noted that the issues discussed are particularly pertinent to business owners, executives, and affluent families aiming to transfer wealth responsibly across generations.

The session also explored leadership, entrepreneurship, governance, and succession, along with Standard Chartered Bank's wealth management services and advisory support for clients seeking to create, preserve, and transfer wealth across generations.