ICSAN Conference Pushes AI Integration in Governance

The Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN) has urged stakeholders to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for excellence and innovation in governance rather than viewing it as a threat to jobs.

Speaking at a pre-conference briefing ahead of ICSAN’s 49th Annual Conference, Vice President Francis Olawale said AI should be harnessed to boost productivity, leadership, and decision-making. He stressed that continuous upskilling and ethical integration were essential to unlocking its full potential.

The two-day conference, themed “Reimagining Governance: Navigating the Artificial Intelligence Revolution for Excellence,” will hold on September 18–19 in Lagos. It will feature keynote speaker Dr. Femi Oyenuga, Group Executive Director of Champs PLC, and will be chaired by Senator Udo Udoma, Chairman of Seplat Energy. Other speakers include IT and AI expert Oluseyi Abiodun, alongside leading professionals from both the public and private sectors.

“Modern governance involves making informed decisions, coordinating people, and providing direction. AI technologies now assist leaders in these roles, and understanding their capabilities and limitations is essential,” Olawale said.

ICSAN said the initiative reflects its mission to build capacity and drive innovation among governance professionals. The conference is expected to challenge participants to rethink conventional practices, embrace disruption, and lead organisational and community transformation.

Beyond the event, the institute continues to champion policy reforms, promote ethical governance, and influence public discourse through advocacy. It said professional bodies must play a stronger role in Nigeria’s economic recovery by supporting sound policies and encouraging best practices across industries.