As Nigeria grapples with governance challenges, weak public communication and declining public trust in institutions, former Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry and Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Otunba Bimbola Ashiru, believes the country must return to the fundamentals of leadership: integrity, reputation and effective communication. In this interview with Sunday Ehigiator, the Convener of the Duke’s Masterclass speaks on why the initiative was conceived, why decision-makers must embrace global best practices, the importance of strategic crisis management, and why he believes ministers should do more to communicate government policies and achievements. Excerpts.
You have worked in banking, government and investment management. How have those experiences shaped your leadership philosophy?
My upbringing played a major role. My father always encouraged us to be confident. He told us never to feel intimidated by anyone, regardless of where we found ourselves. He also taught us that whatever we did, we should strive to create a niche for ourselves. Throughout my career, I have tried to live by those principles.
Whether I was in banking, government or investment management, integrity remained my guiding principle. People who worked with me know that I believe in teamwork. I don’t believe leadership is about one person. You must consult people. You must carry people along. You must listen. No one has a monopoly on knowledge. Those principles have helped me throughout my career.
