By Ogeyi Ebinyi
Rotary International District 9112 recently held a seminar on Ethics in Business and Professions in Ikeja, Lagos, bringing together academics, professionals and students to reflect on ethical leadership, integrity and accountability in contemporary society.
The seminar, themed Building Trust and Integrity: The Foundation of Ethical Business and Professional Practice, was held on the 28th of January and featured a keynote address by Professor Oseni Taiwo Afisi of Lagos State University, who currently serves as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic). Professor Afisi stressed that trust and integrity remain central to ethical decision-making in business and professional life, noting that ethical values must be consciously cultivated to restore confidence in institutions and leadership. He was later presented with an appreciation award in recognition of his contribution.
Speaking at the event, Rotarian Ejime Emmanuel, President of the Rotary Club of Shomolu, reflected on the declining emphasis on ethics in society and underscored the importance of discipline, continuous learning and punctuality in leadership. Drawing from his experience in corporate management, he noted that adherence to time and standards plays a critical role in shaping professional culture and accountability.
A panel session on Ethical Leadership: A Moral Currency for Business Practices and Personal Integrity further explored the theme. Dr. Oladimeji Audu, Managing Director of Atrium Homes Limited, moderated the discussion, while mental health trainer and counsellor Mrs. Chidinma Abiakalam addressed secondary school students on values formation, highlighting the Rotary Four-Way Test as a guide for ethical conduct. Legal practitioner CP Olori Bernitha Agboge emphasised that early value orientation is crucial, noting that societal attitudes toward right and wrong are often shaped from childhood.
Also speaking, Dr. Ayobami Elegunde, Associate Professor of Business Administration at Lagos State University, examined ethics from a leadership perspective, outlining various leadership styles and their implications for organisational performance. He distinguished between leadership and managerial authority, stressing that ethical leadership enhances trust, productivity and goal attainment.
Dr. Emiola Luqman, Director of Human Resources and Administration at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, highlighted the role of automation in promoting transparency and integrity within public institutions. He argued that digital systems reduce inefficiency and strengthen ethical standards across government agencies.
The seminar concluded with the presentation of appreciation awards to panelists by Rotarian Lanre Adedoyin, District Governor of Rotary District 9112, who also commended students from participating schools, including King’s College Lagos Island and Dolphin Senior High School, for upholding Rotary values within their school communities.
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