The Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria (CIoD Nigeria) has elected Otunba Adetunji Adetokunbo Oyebanji as its 19th President and Chairman of the Governing Council. This announcement came during the Institute’s 41st Annual General Meeting, which took place on June 26, 2025, at the Wheatbaker Hotel in Ikoyi, Lagos. With his appointment, CIoD Nigeria enters a new era of leadership aimed at deepening ethical corporate governance and professional development across Nigerian boardrooms.
Oyebanji takes over from Alhaji Tijjani M. Borodo, who successfully completed a transformative two-year term. His emergence followed a properly conducted electoral process, reaffirmed by the Institute’s Director General, Mr. Dele Alimi. Without delay, the newly elected president assumed responsibility for steering the Institute toward a future of stronger institutional capacity and policy engagement.
Bringing Over 40 Years of Industry Leadership
Otunba Oyebanji brings with him more than four decades of leadership experience from Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. He currently serves as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of 11PLC, previously known as Mobil Oil Nigeria Plc. Before taking this role, he held several senior positions at Mobil Oil, where he built a reputation for operational excellence and ethical leadership.
He earned a degree in Economics from the University of Lagos and later obtained an MBA from Bayes Business School in London. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated unwavering commitment to integrity, which now defines his new role at CIoD Nigeria.
Steady Ascent Within the Institute
Prior to becoming President, Oyebanji made significant contributions within CIoD Nigeria. As First Vice President, he chaired several influential committees, including the Finance and General-Purpose Committee as well as the Membership and Branch Development Committee. Through these roles, he helped streamline financial systems and expand membership engagement across Nigeria.
Thanks to his consistent service and strategic insights, he gained the trust and support of CIoD members, which paved the way for his election. His leadership journey within the Institute exemplifies his dedication to building institutions that uphold professionalism and ethical standards.
Leading in a New Chartered Era
CIoD Nigeria now operates under a formal charter granted in 2023. This milestone elevated the Institute to a statutory body responsible for promoting ethical business leadership and enhancing corporate governance in Nigeria. As the new President, Oyebanji steps in at a time when the Institute is expected to expand its influence and solidify its regulatory authority.
Since receiving its charter status, the Institute has embarked on several reforms. These include revamping its leadership structure, creating industry-specific advocacy groups, and rolling out new director training programs. Under Oyebanji’s leadership, CIoD Nigeria plans to accelerate these reforms and introduce new initiatives to raise governance standards.
Wider Impact in the Business Community
Beyond his work in the oil and gas industry, Oyebanji continues to play an active role in Nigeria’s corporate leadership landscape. He previously served as the Chairman of the Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN) and currently leads the Petroleum Downstream Group of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).
Additionally, he holds key positions in other respected institutions. He sits on the council of the Nigerian Institute of Management and the Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria. He also served as the President and Chairman of the Institute of Credit Administration Nigeria. These roles showcase his broad network and deep understanding of governance issues across multiple sectors.
Supporting Officers to Drive Collective Progress
The AGM not only confirmed Oyebanji’s presidency but also ushered in a new leadership team to support him. Mrs. Amina Oyagbola emerged as the First Vice President, while Alhaji Lamis Dikko became the Second Vice President. With their combined expertise, this new team is expected to implement bold strategies that will expand the Institute’s impact and influence.
Together, they will focus on enhancing regional representation, expanding director development programs, and strengthening partnerships with regulatory bodies. They also plan to foster greater collaboration with private and public sector organizations to embed good governance practices.
A Vision Rooted in Ethics and Professionalism
As President, Oyebanji has made it clear that he will prioritize reforms aimed at empowering corporate leaders with the tools and mindset to operate with transparency and accountability. He believes that strong leadership begins with strong ethics, and he intends to promote this principle across every CIoD training and initiative.
Under his leadership, the Institute will focus on practical director education, policy advocacy, and public engagement. He has also promised to make the Institute more inclusive by encouraging more women and young professionals to join and participate actively in its programs.
Personal Achievements and Recognition
Oyebanji’s professional excellence goes beyond corporate boardrooms. He holds the traditional title of Otunba Olufi of Gbongan, a recognition of his community leadership and cultural contributions. His career achievements and public service make him a respected figure in both business and social circles.
With this solid background, he carries the credibility and leadership experience required to guide CIoD Nigeria toward even greater relevance, both nationally and internationally.
Charting the Future of Governance
Looking ahead, Oyebanji’s administration aims to strengthen the Institute’s role in shaping Nigeria’s corporate governance framework. He will lead efforts to ensure that directors, regardless of industry, have access to continuous learning, mentoring, and compliance support.
He also plans to deepen CIoD Nigeria’s engagement with lawmakers, regulators, and business associations to advocate for policy reforms that encourage transparency, sustainability, and growth.
His presidency promises to deliver a results-driven approach anchored in integrity, strategic partnerships, and inclusivity.
Conclusion
Otunba Adetunji Oyebanji’s election as President of CIoD Nigeria marks a turning point for the Institute. With his wealth of experience, leadership record, and reform mindset, he is expected to steer the organization into a future defined by ethical governance, institutional growth, and lasting impact on Nigeria’s business culture.
He enters office with a clear mandate—to inspire change, build strong leaders, and uphold the principles that form the foundation of Nigeria’s corporate future.
