Former Minister Lai Mohammed urges leaders to build public trust to prevent crises and reputational damage
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, emphasized the critical role of building public trust for business leaders and public institutions to safeguard against reputational damage and operational crises. Speaking at the University of Abuja, Mohammed stated that organizations failing to invest in credibility before a crisis often become overwhelmed when pressure mounts. He highlighted communication as a central pillar of leadership, not merely a supporting function, asserting that reputational stability relies on consistent trust cultivation. Mohammed, drawing on his experience during national challenges like insurgency, the COVID-19 pandemic, and civil unrest, argued that effective crisis response begins long before an emergency. He stressed that trust cannot be manufactured during a crisis, describing it as the "infrastructure upon which all communication rests." He outlined six principles for institutions to avoid reputational damage: building trust early, prioritizing action over claims, recognizing credible messengers, monitoring developments in real-time, actively countering misinformation, and clearly explaining decisions. Mohammed noted that verification, such as media tours of liberated communities, is more influential than official statements. He also warned that misinformation has become a significant business risk in the digital age, not just a political problem. He concluded that institutions proactively building trust are better equipped to with
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Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, Pro-Chancellor of Miva Open University, called for reforms to expand access to higher education in Nigeria during the university's maiden convocation ceremony in Lagos. He emphasized that conventional institutions alone cannot meet the educational needs of Nigeria's growing population, making open and distance learning crucial for future reforms. Olowolafe stated that expanding access should not compromise academic standards but rather remove barriers for learners, ensuring more Nigerians can acquire quality education regardless of their circumstances. He highlighted open and distance learning as an effective solution to admission limitations and other challenges in the education sector, drawing parallels to the educational vision of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Olowolafe commended Miva Open University for maintaining quality amidst rapid growth and urged graduating students to embrace lifelong learning and act as university ambassadors. He also called for a greater national commitment to development, stressing that Nigeria's progress relies on educated, disciplined citizens and stronger institutions.
Babatunde Fashola, a former Governor of Lagos State, has called on Nigerians to support refugees and prevent displacement, emphasizing the growing burden of internally displaced persons. Speaking at an event organized by the African Refugees Foundation for World Refugee Day, Fashola stressed the importance of preventing circumstances that lead to displacement. He highlighted patience and peaceful conflict resolution as critical in averting crises and noted that natural disasters also contribute to displacement, underscoring the need for environmental responsibility. Fashola shared a personal experience, stating that his perception of refugees changed after meeting displaced professionals, which made him realize the chain reactions of choosing conflict over peace. Olujimi Olusola, the Chief Executive Officer of the African Refugees Foundation, announced plans to distribute food to approximately 10,000 refugees, internally displaced persons, and vulnerable individuals in Lagos and other states. The initiative, which started in Surulere, also included free health checks and counseling. Olusola added that the foundation aims to provide economic skills to beneficiaries, subject to resource availability, and raise awareness about the plight of displaced persons. Lai Oriowo of Odu鈥檃 Investment Company, representing Chairman Bimbo Ashiru, stated that supporting refugees is a service to humanity and that preventing conflict is crucial for peaceful coexistence.
The Nigerian Communications Commission NCC and the Corporate Affairs Commission CAC have jointly announced new compliance requirements for telecommunications companies in Nigeria. The directive mandates that telecom companies obtain a Letter of No Objection from the NCC before transferring shares amounting to 10 percent or more of their total share capital. This requirement, based on the Nigerian Communications Act NCA 2003, takes immediate effect for NCC-licensed companies proposing changes in ownership or control, including multiple share transfers that collectively exceed the 10 percent threshold. Mrs. Nnenna Ukoha, NCC Director of Public Affairs, stated that the CAC will ensure evidence of NCC approval before registering shareholding changes. The policy aims to prevent anti-competitive practices, preserve a fair and competitive market structure, strengthen oversight of ownership changes, and improve transparency, investor confidence, and regulatory certainty, ultimately safeguarding the long-term stability of Nigeria鈥檚 communications sector. Both agencies are committed to promoting a transparent business environment and fair market practices to support the industry's sustainable growth.