The newly inaugurated President/Chairman in council of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria, Uto Ukpanah, has highlighted reaching younger Nigerians, northern expansion, and a name change as some of the agenda that would mark her tenure.
Ukpanah announced her agenda in her acceptance speech on Wednesday after being sworn in as the 30th president and the second consecutive female president of the association.
Currently serving as the Company Secretary at MTN Nigeria Communications Plc and the MTN Nigeria Foundation, Ukpanah won the Global Corporate Secretary of the Year at the maiden edition of the Corporate Secretaries International Association Global Governance Awards, which was held in Malaysia in 2024.
Speaking at the investiture, she said, “My theme for the new tenure, ‘Expanding the Scope of Developments, Building on Legacy of Visionary Leadership,’ is not merely a slogan; it is a philosophical and strategic call to action.
We will prioritise continuity, but we will also innovate. We will preserve heritage, yet remain receptive to disruption. This is the rhythm of sustainable progress. Now, with a deep feeling of humility and a remarkable sense of purpose, I hereby formally accept the mantle of leadership as the 30th President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria for the next two years.
“The following are what this new administration will strive to focus on in the consolidation of the legacy and expansion of other frontiers. ICSAN 2.0: Engaging a new generation: We recognise that the future of governance lies in the energy, creativity, and digital fluency of our youth. Our aim is not just ambition for more outreach, as we are desirous of robustly fostering intergenerational inclusion. Thus, we will establish a Young Professionals Forum, targeting the Gen Z demographic, not by qualification date, but by generational identity.”
She added that the ICSAN under her watch would deepen its presence in Northern Nigeria, building on the gains of the past and pushing into new frontiers.
“In addition, new chapters will be targeted in states with airports and strategic locations, including Kano, Sokoto, Bauchi, and Kwara, among others. Collaborate with the ICSAN@60 celebration to host landmark events in the North. Introduce public lectures and governance dialogues in northern cities, with a view to cultivating future chapters. This initiative is a strategic commitment to inclusion, federal character, and national visibility. We will also establish new chapters while breathing fresh energy into the existing ones. Every region must feel the presence and pulse of ICSAN. Our national footprint will be expansive and impactful,” she said.
Also ranking prominently on her agenda is the transition from ICSAN to CGIN in line with international best practices and the evolving role of governance professionals.
“We are committed to securing the passage of the ICSAN Amendment Bill, changing our name to the Corporate Governance Institute of Nigeria. This will align us with similar reforms in South Africa, the UK, India, and other jurisdictions. It also reinforces the position of our members as compliance gatekeepers and governance moderators in both the public and private sectors. This is a strategic repositioning for relevance, prestige, and modern identity,” Ukpanah enthused.
In her valedictory message, the 29th president of the institute, Mrs. Funmi Ekundayo, highlighted some of her achievements in office.
“Perhaps one of the most symbolic achievements of this administration is the significant progress made on the construction of our befitting National Secretariat. What was a distant dream two years ago has now taken form, with the foundation firmly laid and work on the superstructure already underway. This is more than a building project; it is a legacy project, a testament to our belief in the future of ICSAN.
“Linkage agreements with reputable institutions: We are proud to have secured six strategic linkage agreements with reputable universities across the country, viz., Caleb University, Redeemer’s University, Obong University, Chrisland University, University of Uyo, and Topfaith University. We also partnered with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). These agreements enhance the visibility of our qualification and ensure a steady pipeline of well-trained professionals,” she said.
On passing the leadership baton to a woman, she said, “I do so with absolute confidence and peace of mind. My successor, Mrs. Uto Ukpanah, is a woman of substance. She is astute, visionary, principled, and equipped with the leadership depth required to move this institute to even greater heights. I have no doubt that she will consolidate on the gains we have made and chart new territories in the growth of ICSAN. I encourage every member to give her full and unwavering support.”
Ekundayo went on to reiterate her commitment to the ICSAN vision, saying, “I may be taking a bow, but I am not taking a leave. I remain committed to the ideals of this institute, and I look forward to supporting its progress in every possible way.”
