CIPE launches certificate programme in UNILAG, makes case for unified private sector

The Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), in collaboration with the University of Lagos (UNILAG), has unveiled the Association and Chamber Excellence (ACE) certification programme.

The initiative is aimed at upskilling chamber executives and association leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to drive sustainable growth and effective policy implementation.

The programme was launched on Tuesday at the Human Resource Development Centre (HRDC) in UNILAG. 

Andrew Wilson, global director of CIPE, called for a unified private sector that can speak with one voice. This, he said, will solidify the ability of the sector to influence government policies and programmes. 

“When the private sector speaks with one organised, credible, and professional voice, government listens, reforms happen, and the business climate improves for all,” he said. 

“When businesses speak in chorus, through chambers of commerce, industry associations, and coalitions, they can shape laws and policies in ways that spur inclusive growth.

“An individual firm, especially if it is a small or mid-sized one, as most are in Nigeria, would struggle to find the time to even try to address a policy issue, let alone to make itself heard.

“But when associations bring members together, from small entrepreneurs to large corporations, they are able to pool their resources to address policy and governance issues, and their combined voice becomes too strong to ignore.”

Wilson added that the ACE programme has been specially designed to empower business executives and managers to effectively play their role in driving business growth and fostering economic development across the continent. 

“I am thrilled to see ACE taking off in Nigeria. This programme is not just teaching skills; it is empowering leaders to implement policies, strengthen governance, and transform their chambers,” he said. 

Folashade Ogunsola, vice-chancellor of UNILAG, expressed confidence in the capacity of HRDC to run the programme effectively. 

“HRDC is the university’s capacity-building hub, and ACE is combining rigorous academics with practical training,” she said. 

“We are equipping chamber executives and association leaders with the knowledge and tools they need to drive sustainable growth and effective policy implementation.

“This is more than a training. We are empowering the private sector to implement government policies efficiently, ensure better resource management, and promote sustainable development.

“The benefits extend beyond Nigeria to the entire African business ecosystem, supporting trade and investment partnerships.”

Lateef Odekunle, director and head, HRDC, explained that the programme will be hybrid, with lectures taking place only on weekends. 

He also stated that the programme will be facilitated by faculty members drawn from the private sector and the academia. 

Notable members of the faculty are Babatunde Oni, Idris Odekunle, Muda Yusuf, Oluseyi Shadare, Janet Omisore, Simeon Akinyele, Abraham Osinubi, and Tola Gbogboade, among others. 

Toki Mabogunje, former president of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), said the programme will be of immense value to chambers and associations. 

“ACE is bridging the gap between theory and practice in chamber management. Leaders are gaining strategic insight and hands-on skills that enable chambers to thrive, innovate, and represent business interests effectively,” she said. 

The first cohort is set to begin in January 2026, with a 40-hour intensive training session designed to equip leaders with practical skills in governance, management, and strategic decision-making. 

CIPE is a global organisation that works to strengthen democracy and build competitive markets in many of the world’s most challenging environments.

Working alongside local partners and tomorrow’s leaders, CIPE “advances the voice of business in policymaking, promotes opportunity, and develops resilient economies”.