In an era where the demands on leaders are growing increasingly complex, the group managing director and chief executive officer of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX Group), Temi Popoola, has called for a renewed focus on authenticity and people-centricd leadership to navigate the multifaceted challenges of a globalised world.
Popoola stated this at the Taj Lands End Leadership Summit in Mumbai, India.
Speaking on the theme, ‘Authenticity, Leadership, and Hope for the Future’ Popoola stressed that leaders must embrace self-awareness and empathy to build cohesive teams capable of delivering exceptional outcomes.
As the leader of one of Africa’s most prominent stock exchanges, he underscored that the strategic act of hiring and retaining the right talent, and fostering a culture of collaboration is pivotal for long-term success.
Drawing from his experiences, he shared how challenges in leadership have been mitigated through lessons learned from mentors and the wisdom found in books, both of which continue to shape his decision-making process.
On the personal front, he discussed the challenges of balancing professional success with personal commitments, saying, ‘Leadership is not just about the boardroom; it is about showing up authentically in every aspect of life.’
He further reflected on the vital role of spirituality and lifelong learning, crediting these pillars for providing strength and resilience during periods of uncertainty.
In a world marked by rapid change and emerging challenges, Popoola expressed optimism for the future, particularly in developing nations like India and Nigeria.
He described the youth in these regions as untapped reservoirs of innovation and growth, urging leaders to strategically invest in their development to unlock transformative potential. He further articulated a clear vision for leadership that resonates across industries and geographies.
He called on leaders to prioritize authenticity, champion continuous learning, and harness the power of human capital to address both immediate challenges and future opportunities.
