The Professional Leadership Practitioners Institute (PLPI) has emphasised the urgent need for adaptive and transformative leadership in response to the rise of Artificial Intelligence, automation, and digital disruption.

The call came during the 2025 Fellowship Induction, Investiture, Awards and Luncheon held at LCCI Alausa, Lagos.

PLPI President, Prof. Charles Ogbulogo, urged leaders and professionals to embrace innovation not as a luxury, but a necessity for survival. Speaking on the theme, “Driving Innovation Through Leadership in Techs and Startups in the Age of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Disruption,” Ogbulogo stressed that modern leadership is about influence, innovation, and integrity, rather than titles or authority.

“It is about how effectively we can harness ideas, mobilise people, and drive meaningful change—especially in developing societies, where challenges are huge but opportunities greater,” he said.

Prof. Ogbulogo also highlighted the importance of empowering youths and entrepreneurs to spearhead the next wave of global solutions, from fintech to green energy, through visionary leadership and a supportive ecosystem.

Director General, Dr. Nathan Obasi, reinforced the idea that leadership is not confined to management positions, describing it as democratised:

“Leadership is the provision of vision and influence on others to realise goals and objectives through non-coercive means.”

Speaker Olufemi Ariyo added that leadership transcends national boundaries, encouraging participants to create opportunities that generate foreign currency earnings.

The event also featured panel discussions, fellowship investitures, and awards presentations to deserving dignitaries, underscoring the institute’s commitment to nurturing leaders capable of navigating complexity, fostering creativity, and driving transformation.