The Society for Corporate Governance Nigeria (SCGN) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting ethical leadership, transparency, accountability and sustainability across Nigeria’s public and private sectors, urging corporate boards to strengthen oversight as artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly embedded in business operations.
Speaking through it’s Board Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, the Society made this commitment at its 2026 Annual Corporate Governance Conference, held at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, with the theme, “Artificial Intelligence, Power and Accountability: The New Architecture of Corporate Governance.”
President and Board Chairman of SCGN, Mr Muhammad K. Ahmad, OON, said organisations must ensure that accountability remains with boards and management, regardless of the extent to which AI is used in decision-making.
He stressed that boards must understand where AI is deployed, assess its risks, ensure data is reliable and lawfully obtained, and establish appropriate human oversight to prevent bias and protect stakeholders.
Mr. Ahmad noted that directors did not need to become software engineers but must possess sufficient knowledge to challenge management, assess technology-related risks and determine whether existing governance structures were adequate.
In her welcome address, SCGN Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Chioma Mordi, described AI governance as a critical corporate governance concern, emphasising the need for clear responsibility, ethical judgement and transparency to ensure innovation strengthens rather than undermines public trust.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Evans Woherem, Founder and Chairman of Digital Africa Global Consult Ltd, called for greater African participation in developing and controlling AI infrastructure, warning that the technology could deepen existing vulnerabilities if not properly governed. He also advocated multidisciplinary board-level oversight, responsible data management and ethical controls throughout the AI lifecycle.
Mrs Omolola Oloworaran, Director-General of the National Pension Commission, reinforced the importance of accountability, transparency and human responsibility in governing AI-driven decisions.
A panel session featuring senior executives and AI governance experts examined how boards could move beyond AI experimentation to measurable business value, stressing that organisations must establish responsible AI policies, monitor investment returns and ensure that named executives remain accountable for business outcomes.
The conference also featured a fireside chat on “From Digital to Intelligence Enterprise: What AI Governance Really Demands of Boards,” which explored the leadership, oversight and organisational capabilities required for responsible AI adoption.
A major highlight was the launch of Corporate Governance and Sustainability Reporting in Nigeria and the 30th edition of the Journal of Corporate Governance. The publications provide research and practical insights into sustainability disclosures, board oversight, ethical leadership, cybersecurity and emerging technology governance.
Through the conference and publications, SCGN reiterated its commitment to strengthening governance standards and equipping Nigerian organisations to pursue innovation, sustainable growth and long-term stakeholder trust.
