Integrity, character vital for sustainable economic growth – Coleman MD

Mr George Onafowokan, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Coleman Technical Industries Limited, emphasized the significance of integrity, character, and discipline as the bedrock for establishing enduring businesses and fostering long-term economic development. During the opening ceremony of the inaugural Pan-Atlantic University Alumni Association International Conference, which took place at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Lagos, Onafowokan discussed the importance of vision, focus, discipline, integrity, and good character as the key principles for achieving professional and corporate success.

He highlighted that integrity, not material possessions, should be a person's primary asset and that cultivating strong character and integrity can help mitigate risks and streamline the process of conducting business or leading a team. Onafowokan also cautioned against the establishment of businesses solely to finance personal lifestyles, stating that such organizations are unlikely to survive for generations unless they are grounded in robust governance and effective leadership.

Pan-Atlantic University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Enase Okonedo, praised the university's executive committee for organizing the historic summit and highlighted the value of ethics in driving national transformation. She noted that the university has grown from a small living room in Sierra Leone to a sprawling campus with a collective alumni body of 15,000 members.

Okonedo stressed that the university's 15,000 alumni can make a significant difference in Nigeria, given their strong work ethic and values. In his remarks, Dr Onyebuchi Odianjo, the President of the Pan-Atlantic University Alumni Association, expressed gratitude to the university administration, sponsors, and alumni network for bringing the international conference to fruition.

He reiterated the association's commitment to strengthening industry partnerships, improving student support, and transforming the alumni network into a platform that connects people, ideas, and industries, ultimately fostering lasting impacts.