The President of the International Coaching Federation Nigeria Chapter, Charles Okeibunor, has called for the adoption of a coaching culture across government institutions, businesses, and organisations, describing it as a critical tool for improving leadership, governance, and human capital development in Nigeria and across Africa.
Okeibunor made the remarks during an interview on Guest of the Moment, a flagship personality and current affairs programme on the combined service of Radio Nigeria Lagos Operations, comprising Radio One 103.5FM and Metro FM 97.7.
Speaking on the growing relevance of coaching globally, the ICF Nigeria President said coaching has evolved into a strategic leadership tool that helps individuals and organisations improve decision-making, maximise productivity, and build stronger institutions.
According to him, coaching enables leaders to identify challenges early, manage teams more effectively, and reduce waste of time, energy, and financial resources.
“Coaching is a professional conversation that stimulates the thinking faculty of individuals to help them solve problems, gain insights, and make better decisions,” he explained.
Okeibunor argued that many leadership and institutional failures stem from poor communication and lack of trust between leaders and followers.
He noted that coaching promotes consensus building by helping leaders make people feel “seen and heard,” thereby strengthening trust and improving organisational performance.
He further stated that leadership based solely on position and authority is no longer sustainable in today’s rapidly changing world, emphasizing that influence has become the true currency of leadership.
Addressing governance and leadership challenges in Nigeria and Africa, Okeibunor said the continent possesses enormous human potential but must shift focus from mere population strength to quality leadership, strategic thinking, and measurable results.
“Africa has quantity, but we must deliberately refine that quantity into quality,” he said, urging leaders and institutions to align their values with long-term development goals.
The coaching expert also stressed the importance of continuous learning and reflection, especially among young professionals struggling with career direction and workplace productivity.
According to him, coaching helps individuals identify whether their limitations stem from lack of skill or lack of confidence, enabling them to make more informed career and leadership decisions.
Okeibunor described the International Coaching Federation as the global benchmark for professional coaching standards, with operations spanning over 140 countries and 99 chapters worldwide.
He revealed that the organisation’s annual International Coaching Week, would focus on the theme: “From Authority to Influence: Coaching as the New Currency for Leadership.”
The ICF Nigeria President said the initiative is aimed at opening conversations around leadership transformation, strategic thinking, and professional development across different sectors.
He also challenged government institutions, schools, and organisations to adopt coaching-oriented leadership models that encourage creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking rather than rigid command structures.
On personal development, Okeibunor urged Nigerians to embrace lifelong learning and continuous self-improvement.
“In the university of experience, nobody graduates. Keep learning, keep unlearning what no longer serves you, and keep relearning what helps you grow,” he said.
Reporting By Niran Odufayo