At the Christopher Kolade Centre for Research in Leadership and Ethics (CKCRLE), we are dedicated to pioneering research, fostering knowledge, and advancing dialogue on leadership and ethics to drive positive change in Nigeria and across the African continent.
Established in October 2013, CKCRLE was founded on the principles of Dr. Christopher Kolade’s enduring commitment to ethical leadership and his belief in the transformative power of research and education. With his vision as our guiding star, we have embarked on a journey to become a global leader in the field of leadership and ethics research.
At CKCRLE, we believe that informed decision-making is the cornerstone of responsible leadership. We conduct rigorous research on a wide range of topics related to leadership and ethics, spanning across sectors and industries. Our multidisciplinary team of experts is dedicated to producing insightful, data-driven knowledge that informs policy, shapes best practices, and drives innovation.
We recognize that the impact of our work extends beyond academia. CKCRLE actively engages with communities, businesses, government agencies, and civil society organizations to foster a culture of ethical leadership. We collaborate on projects, initiatives, and events that promote ethical values and drive positive change in society.
Our Thematic Focus includes:
CKCRLE aims to build capacity among researches, managers and leaders through the following initiatives:
Research Workshops
This is aimed at empowering and improving the research capability of researchers in Nigeria. (Check our News and Events section for upcoming workshops)
Social Issue Clusters (SIC)
This is a think tank style event held to brainstorm social issues in leadership and ethics in the country and proffer solutions to them. The SIC meeting is usually convened for a small group of people, knowledgeable about or directly impacted by the social issue, and led through an open discussion. SIC findings are organised in a synthesized format, and may be presented in a communiqué to the appropriate institution, as a newspaper article or in a formal report. The Chatham House rule applies to each SIC.
Industry Breakfast Meetings (IBM)
This is a meeting of players along the value chain to discuss leadership and ethical issues pertaining to a specific industry. The IBM takes the form of a panel discussion targeting a specific sector. It is designed to provide an opportunity for the group to hear industry stakeholders present information, discuss their views, share experiences, and proffer solutions to the ethical challenges facing their industry.
Humanistic Management Network (HMN)
CKCRLE is the focal point for the Nigerian chapter of the Humanistic Management Network. The Nigerian chapter is part of an international, interdisciplinary and independent network that promotes the development of an economic system imbued with respect for human dignity and well-being. HMN engagements include business meetings, knowledge cafés and so on. HMN membership is open.
Research Labs
The research lab provides an opportunity for researchers to present and discuss ongoing research and to get feedback from their colleagues.
Research creation is the core of our activity at CKCRLE.
All CKCRLE team members are committed to research – the systematic, investigative process employed to increase or revise current knowledge by discovering new facts in the fields of leadership and ethics. The results of CKCRLE’s research are published as articles in top international journals, case studies, technical notes and books.
CKCRLE has dedicated itself to rigorous scholarship, fostering dialogue, and disseminating research findings aimed at enhancing leadership practices and promoting ethical conduct across various sectors of society.
In line with our vision of sharing knowledge that improves the way managers lead and live in Africa and the world, CKCRLE will utilize conferences, electronic, print and social media to disseminate the result of its research.
Over the years, CKCRLE’s research efforts have contributed to a deeper understanding of leadership and ethics in Nigeria and Africa. Our findings have informed policy decisions, shaped leadership practices, and inspired ethical conduct in various sectors. However, we recognize that there is much work to be done. As we look to the future, CKCRLE remains committed to expanding its research initiatives, engaging in more collaborations, and leveraging technology to reach wider audiences. We aim to play a pivotal role in creating a more ethical, responsible, and effective leadership landscape in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.
Research Dissemination Initiatives Include:
- Publications: CKCRLE has published numerous research papers, reports, and books, making our findings accessible to academics, practitioners, policymakers, and the general public. Our publications span a wide range of topics, including leadership models, ethical dilemmas, case studies, and best practices.
- Conferences and Seminars: To foster dialogue and exchange of ideas, CKCRLE regularly organizes conferences, seminars, and workshops. These events bring together scholars, practitioners, and stakeholders to discuss research findings, share experiences, and explore solutions to leadership and ethics challenges.
- Collaborations: CKCRLE collaborates with leading national and international institutions, think tanks, and organizations to amplify the impact of our research. These partnerships facilitate the dissemination of research findings across borders and disciplines.
- Online Resources: The center maintains an online platform featuring a repository of research publications, resources, webinars, and articles. This digital hub serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and professionals interested in leadership and ethics.
CKCRLE engages the wider business community through the following initiatives:
Alumni Support Network (ASN)
This is a forum for LBS alumni. The objective is to provide a network that can boost the efforts of members to implement ethical principles and concepts in their business activities.
Collaboration with External Parties
CKCRLE constantly liaises with like-minded organizations in carrying out its mission and activities. This activity takes various forms – joint projects, alliances, sponsorships, partnerships etc.