Business
By Wealth Ufford
PROF. Chris Ogbechie, Professor of Strategic Management, Lagos Business School, Pan-Atlantic University, has identified weak institutional capacity, poor leadership, policy inconsistency and inadequate accountability as major obstacles to effective policy execution and sustainable development across Africa.
Speaking during a panel session at the FITC Sustainability and ESG Conference 3.0, the professor stressed that while technology, including artificial intelligence, can provide solutions, successful execution ultimately depends on people, leadership and strong institutions.
According to the speaker, one of the greatest challenges confronting governments and organisations is the inability to effectively implement well-designed policies and strategies due to weak institutional frameworks and a shortage of competent professionals.
“Execution is not about machines, computers or artificial intelligence. AI can provide solutions, but execution depends on people,” he said.
Ogbechie noted that leadership remains at the heart of successful execution and that frequent policy changes resulting from political transitions often disrupt continuity and hinder long-term development.
He also cited weak governance and poor accountability as significant barriers, arguing that corruption frequently leads to decisions that serve individual interests rather than the broader interests of institutions and society.
The professor also pointed to inadequate investment in infrastructure, including transportation and digital connectivity as another factor slowing Africa’s development.
To address these challenges, Ogbechie called for greater investment in education, skills development and manufacturing, urging African countries to reduce their dependence on commodity exports by establishing industries capable of creating jobs and nurturing talent.
He recommended that organisations adopt clear performance measurement systems by setting defined objectives, identifying strategic initiatives, allocating the necessary resources, assigning responsibility and regularly evaluating outcomes.
Emphasising the importance of data, the speaker stated that organisations and governments can no longer operate effectively without collecting and using reliable data to guide decision-making and monitor performance.
Looking ahead, Prof. Ogbechie described the global transition towards green technology and sustainable practices as a significant opportunity for Africa.
According to him, the continent is well positioned to benefit from the Fourth Industrial Revolution because of its abundant natural resources, youthful population and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Ogbechie noted that Africa’s growing youth population represents both a valuable talent pool and a large consumer market capable of driving economic growth.
The speaker urged governments, businesses and development stakeholders to take advantage of these opportunities by investing in innovation, sustainability and human capital to accelerate Africa’s economic transformation.
W.U
July 9, 2026
Tags: Prof. Chris Ogbechie