Coronation Group’s Group Executive and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Ngozi Akinyele, emphasized the critical role of translating ideas into action for both individuals and organisations at the 2026 edition of The Platform Nigeria, held on Workers’ Day. In a presentation titled “Heart of Intrapreneurship 2.0,” Akinyele outlined seven levers that have guided her career and argued that intentional leadership and structured systems are essential for unlocking growth and creating pathways for emerging leaders.
Akinyele highlighted trust and organisational clarity as the foundation of sustainable success. “Every single day you have an opportunity to scale trust; if you don’t scale trust, you can’t scale growth,” she said. She warned that many organisations lack a clear structure, noting that without an organogram “you are simply saying you are not intentional about anybody’s growth.” She likened this to asking someone to climb a ladder without seeing the next rung, underscoring the need for clear pathways to foster intrapreneurial activity.
The speaker also urged entrepreneurs to develop adaptability, describing it as vital in today’s rapidly changing business environment. “Entrepreneurs, I will ask you today to be the good ‘Sponge Boss,’ or better yet, be the God‑kind of ‘Sponge Boss,’” she added, encouraging leaders to absorb and disseminate knowledge effectively.
The Platform Nigeria, now in its 20th year since its inception in 2007, opened the event with remarks from convener Poju Oyemade, Senior Pastor of the Covenant Christian Centre. Oyemade reflected on his personal journey and stressed that true success is measured by the ability to lift others. The May‑Day edition of the forum aimed to inspire a new generation of innovators and nation‑builders.
The conference featured a roster of prominent speakers, including former Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun, entrepreneur Vusi Thembekwayo, Tosin Eniolorunda, Affiong Williams, Sinari Bolade Daranijo, Nancy Ogbue, and John Alamu. Together, they engaged young Nigerians on enterprise, leadership, and the future of work under the theme “Unlocking the Second Half Advantage: Transition, Impact and Legacy.”
By spotlighting the levers of trust, structure, and adaptability, Akinyele’s remarks and the broader dialogue at The Platform Nigeria underscore a growing emphasis on intrapreneurship as a driver of economic development across Africa. The event’s outcomes are expected to inform policy and corporate strategies aimed at nurturing talent and scaling sustainable growth in the region.
