As part of efforts to further amplify the need for effective leadership across global sectors, GLG Communications, a leading public relations and reputation management firm, in partnership with Brian Reuben Organisation, an international leadership development institution, hosted the 2022 edition of the Leadership Agenda Summit at the weekend. 

Held concurrently at the Habtoor Palace Hotel, Dubai and the BWC Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos, the summit was attended by dignitaries and senior leaders across politics, business, arts, entrepreneurship, technology and academia. 

Former President of Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), Dr Sam Ohuabunwa (OFR), urged leaders across global sectors to focus on increasing the quality of life of the people they lead. Delivering his keynote address on the topic, ‘The purpose and power of governments in a changing world’, he noted: “The role of the government is to make the life of its citizens better.” 

CEO of Pan African Towers, Azeez Amida, emphasised the importance of leaders building good relationships with people to navigate the chaos and new trends in today’s landscape. “As leaders, we believe we are in control, but most of the time, that is not so,” he said. 

Amida revealed it is not always advisable to go with every new trend in an industry, as it often makes leaders lose focus on their current projects. “Trends are driven by people who feel they would enjoy more benefits. Focus on what you have now. When you build a case, hope for the best,” he added.

Delivering her keynote speech, 44th Miss Nigeria, Shatu Garko, highlighted why it is vital for youths to participate in global leadership. “It is essential not to neglect the youths. Statistics show that around 60 per cent of Africa’s population is younger than 25 years, and more than a third are between 15-34 years old,” she said.

As a change agent herself, being the first Hijabi contestant to win a national beauty pageant, she implored leaders across all sectors to initiate change in the leadership system, noting that the world today needs diversity, inclusivity and fresh perspectives. 

“Let us remember that if we fail to consider all the different voices available to create a holistic perspective, we will lose the innovation and insights we eagerly seek to create – A Brand New World! A world that we rightfully deserve as a people.”

Omawumi Ogbe, the managing partner at GLG Communications, spoke on shifts reshaping the world as it concerns national competitiveness. In her discussion, she shared different ways global leaders and the government can make lasting change. 

On why GLG Communications partnered with the 2022 Leadership Agenda Summit, Omawumi disclosed that the summit allows leaders and emerging leaders to explore innovation, change, and transformation within their spheres of influence. 

“GLG Communications aims to be at the forefront of critical conversations that move our country and continent forward,” she said, adding: “We understand that the role of a business is not just to make profit but to impact the people in the environment it operates.” 

The lineup of speakers included the former opposition leader of the UK and member of the House of Lords, Lord Michael Howard; member of the Upper House of Indian Parliament, Sayed Zafa Islam; founder of Tekedia Institute, Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe; chairman of the Private Office of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Faisal Al-Qassimi, Dubai, H.E Tomasz Zaleski; and Lead Partner, Detail Solicitors and Chairman, NBA Section on Business Law, Ayuli Jemide.