By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A businessman and founder of Colenson Group of Companies, Mr Michael Olawale-Cole, has been elected as the new president of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).
Mr Olawale-Cole is taking over the leadership of the chamber from Mrs Toki Mabogunje following the expiration of her tenure of two years.
He will be formally inaugurated as the 24th President of the LCCI at a ceremony slated for Saturday, December 4, 2021, in Lagos, according to a statement.
The Director-General of the LCCI, Ms Chinyere Almona, in the statement, explained that at the 133rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the organisation on Thursday, December 2, 2021, at the Commerce House, on Victoria Island, Lagos, the board decided to go for Mr Olawale-Cole for the position because of his immense experience.
He was formerly a Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development in Lagos State before he later became the Commissioner for Works and Transport in the same state.
The board, according to Ms Almona, believes his experience in both the business and political scenes would be needed to take the chamber to enviable heights.
Besides, he is an astute boardroom executive who had served the chamber previously in various capacities such as Deputy President, Vice President, Chairperson, Public Affairs Committee, Chairperson, Financial &General Purposes Committee among others.
“Indeed, we are very pleased as Michael Olawale-Cole assumes the role of President of LCCI. As a Council Member and a key officer of the chamber, he has brought his extensive knowledge and experience to bear and has provided inspirational leadership and direction for the success of the chamber.
“His emergence as the President will enhance the Chamber’s role as the leading public policy advocate, promoting and protecting the interest of its members and the business community at large,” the statement disclosed.