Since its inception, the Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria (SCGN) has led efforts to drive corporate governance reform and adoption across the Nigerian private sector. However, we have realised that there is yet much more work to be done. To create a society where proper corporate governance practices are truly used, we must extend the same principles of transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership to the African public sector, starting with our home country of Nigeria.
This realisation has led the society to create the Centre for Public Sector Governance (CPSG). CPSG will be officially launched during its inaugural conference on November 19, 2024. This conference represents more than just launching a new initiative; it reflects our commitment and is a significant step toward strengthening governance standards within the Nigerian public sector and beyond.
Today’s article delves into how the theme of the upcoming conference aligns with core governance principles and examines how they can be used to shape a positive future for public sectors in Nigeria and across Africa.
The Role of Leadership and Ethics in Governance
Leadership and ethics are foundational to the effective operation of any institution, but they are especially critical in the public sector. In the context of public institutions, leadership is not just the ability to manage day-to-day operations. It is also the capacity to make decisions prioritising public good over personal or political interests. On the other hand, ethics refers to the standards of integrity, honesty, and fairness that should guide decision-making processes.
The theme for CPSG’s inaugural conference is “Strengthening Leadership and Ethics for Public Sector Institutions.” It highlights a crucial area of public governance as state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and regulatory bodies have suffered from inefficiencies, mismanagement, and corruption, undermining public trust in government institutions. It is precisely why the theme of leadership and ethics is so important, as it promises a renewed focus on ethical behaviour and transparent leadership in managing public institutions.
Corporate Governance as a Model for Public Sector Reform
Corporate governance principles are often associated with private organisations, but these principles are just as important in the public sector. For example, applying corporate governance principles like transparency and accountability in any organisation improves decision-making and builds public trust.
Furthermore, public sector institutions, especially SOEs, play a critical role in service delivery, economic development, and maintaining public trust. Just as private organisations are expected to adhere to high standards of corporate governance, so too should public sector institutions. By embedding strong leadership practices and ethical standards within public institutions, the CPSG aims to drive reforms to ensure better governance and service delivery, ultimately benefiting the average citizen.
Driving Change in The Public Sector
The conference will present an excellent opportunity for thought leaders, policymakers, and governance experts to discuss practical strategies for improving governance in Nigeria’s public sector. The discussions around the theme of “Strengthening Leadership and Ethics for Public Sector Institutions” will focus on the mechanisms needed to ensure ethical leadership becomes the norm rather than the exception.
A key area of focus will be developing and implementing governance frameworks for public institutions. For example, Nigeria’s Financial Reporting Council (FRCN) recently introduced an Exposure Draft of the Public Sector Governance Code, which sets out the standards for transparency, accountability, and ethical behaviour that public sector institutions should strive to meet. The conference will provide a platform for experts to discuss how to apply these frameworks and adapt them to the specific needs of the Nigerian public sector.
Additionally, the conference will explore how public institutions can be better equipped to deal with the challenges of governance in an evolving world. Nigeria’s rapidly changing political, social, and economic landscape demands that public sector leaders have the right skills and ethical frameworks to navigate these challenges effectively.
Keynote Speakers and Expert Insights
The conference will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers, each contributing their expertise on ethical leadership in public sector institutions:
Professor Adetunji Olaopa, Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, will deliver the keynote address, setting the tone for discussions on strengthening leadership within Nigeria’s public institutions.
Mr. Muhammad K. Ahmad OON, a governance expert, will share his insights on ethical governance practices.
Dr. Armstrong Takang, CEO of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), will offer his expertise on integrating ethics into public sector leadership.
Dr. Dasuki Arabi, Director General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), will contribute to the discussion on practical solutions for enhancing leadership and ethics in public sector institutions.
Other speakers at the event are Mrs. Funmi Ilamah, Managing Partner, Management Strategy Advisory Ltd and Ms. Ayotola Jagun, Chief Compliance Officer & Company Secretary, Oando Plc. with Mrs. Uto Ukpanah, Company Secretary, MTN Nigeria as the Moderator of the conference.
CPSG’s commitment to research, capacity-building, and advisory services will be a central theme of the conference, with these experts helping to chart a course for implementing necessary reforms across Nigeria’s public sector.
Shaping the Future of Public Governance
The conference is more than just an event, but a call to action to reform Nigeria’s public sector. In our ongoing push for better organisational and national governance, CPSG’s initiatives will be a crucial tool to ensure that public institutions adopt the leadership and ethical practices essential for a sustainable, transparent, and accountable government.
By bringing together key experts, policymakers, and stakeholders, CPSG will help chart a new course for Nigeria’s public institutions. It is through these collaborative efforts and a renewed focus on leadership and ethics that Nigeria can achieve the governance reforms it so urgently needs.
If you are a leader, executive, public servant, or lawmaker who wants to be part of this historic event, click this link to register.
See you at the conference!