TLDR: The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN) has called on governance professionals to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) ethically and strategically to navigate evolving global challenges and enhance corporate governance. This call was made ahead of ICSAN’s 49th Annual Conference, themed ‘Reimagining Governance: Navigating the Artificial Intelligence Revolution for Excellence’.
Lagos, Nigeria – The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN) is strongly advocating for governance professionals to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their practices to effectively address emerging global challenges and foster excellence in corporate governance. This crucial message was delivered by Mr. Francis Olawale, Vice President of ICSAN, during a press conference held in Lagos on Monday, September 17, 2025, to announce the institute’s upcoming 49th Annual Conference.
Mr. Olawale emphasized that AI is not merely a tool but a ‘disruptive force’ that is rapidly transforming various facets of corporate governance, including decision-making processes, accountability frameworks, and risk management strategies. He highlighted that modern corporate governance extends beyond traditional compliance and reporting, now demanding the seamless integration of strategy, innovation, and advanced technology.
Addressing potential concerns, Olawale urged professionals not to perceive AI as a threat, but rather as an opportunity for growth and efficiency. He stated, “We should not feel threatened by AI. We only need to constantly upscale ourselves, understand its limits, and integrate it effectively.” He further cautioned that the adoption of AI must be carefully balanced with ethical, legal, and transparency considerations to ensure responsible deployment.
ICSAN’s 49th Annual Conference, scheduled for September 18 and 19 in Lagos, is themed ‘Reimagining Governance: Navigating the Artificial Intelligence Revolution for Excellence’. The conference aims to delve into the future of governance in a world increasingly shaped by technological disruptions. A key sub-theme, ‘Balancing AI with Ethics and Accountability,’ will specifically address the legal and ethical implications of AI in governance.
Participants, including legal experts, regulators, company secretaries, and academics from both Nigeria and abroad, are expected to gain practical insights to overcome fears associated with technological disruption. Olawale assured that attendees would leave ‘better equipped to handle innovations and disruptions,’ viewing AI as ‘a great tool for creativity and efficiency on their job and professional callings rather than as a hindrance.’
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Notable figures slated to chair the event include Senator Udo Udoma, Board Chairman of Seplat Energy, and Mr. Emmanuel Ikazoboh, Chairman of Dangote Cement. Dr. Femi Oyenuga, Group Executive Director of Chams Holding Company, will serve as the keynote speaker, with IT and AI expert Oluseyi Abiodun also among the distinguished speakers. The initiative underscores ICSAN’s commitment to building capacity, fostering innovation, championing policy reforms, and promoting ethical governance within Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape.
