CIoD warns executives against neglecting health for work

The Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria CIoD Nigeria has urged business leaders, directors and senior executives to prioritise their physical health and wellbeing despite the growing demands of corporate leadership.

The institute said the demanding nature of executive responsibilities, which require sound judgement, sustained attention and effective management of complex organisational challenges, makes personal wellness essential to effective leadership.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the institute’s Abuja Zone ahead of its 2026 Walk for Life, scheduled for Saturday, November 7, at Millennium Park, Abuja.

The event, themed “Advancing Executive Wellness, Building Connections, and Inspiring Healthier Leadership,” is designed to encourage business leaders and professionals to embrace regular physical activity and healthier lifestyles.

The institute said the initiative reflects its recognition that sustainable leadership goes beyond professional competence and boardroom responsibilities to include personal health and wellbeing.

The walk will be led by CIoD Nigeria’s National President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Adetunji Oyebanji, and hosted by the Abuja Zonal Chairperson, Rose Eshiett.

According to the institute, walking offers an accessible way for participants to improve their fitness while providing opportunities for networking, professional collaboration and relationship-building outside conventional business environments.

It also stressed that executive wellbeing has implications for workplace culture, noting that business leaders can influence organisational attitudes towards employee health through their personal habits and decisions.

The institute urged directors and senior executives to lead by example by promoting healthier working environments and sustainable organisational performance.

It consequently invited directors, senior executives, business professionals and members of the public to participate in the exercise.

CIoD Nigeria is a professional organisation committed to strengthening corporate governance, ethical leadership and best practices in directorship.