2 | APRIL — JUNE 2023
EDITOR’S NOTE
W
hat a fantastic way to start the New Year!
It all began in 2012 when we started
CHAMP, a consulting firm, providing
executive coaching for C-level
executives, workforce development for
their teams & advisory services for their
organizations. While we facilitated the growth of
these executives, we soon realized the need to create
a platform where they could share and gain insights
while getting more exposure.
Fast forward to 2022. It was indeed a year for us to
reflect on what we wanted to achieve – a thought-
leadership platform or a news tabloid. It was a time to
find our bearings, define our vision, and go back to the
drawing board over and over again until we felt that
seamless satisfaction. And voila! Creating a thought
leadership platform just made perfect sense.
Of course, we thought it was easy-peasy until we began
to collate the necessary information for our thriving
audience. Things became clearer to us. There were days
we were tense, nervous, grew cold feet, and somewhat
unsure of the eventuality, especially with the general
election gathering momentum. But then we knew it
had to be now or never.
APRIL — JUNE 2023
So, because we are enamoured to distill excellence in
whatever we do, we intentionally mapped out plans,
put in the work, and sourced the best minds to breathe
life into this vision.
To deliver this thought leadership platform that serves
practical insights, we toured Nigeria and quite a few
other African countries like Ghana both virtually and
physically. And we came up with the most inspiring and
solution-oriented content, just to give you a reflection
of excellence.
Thus in this inaugural edition of the magazine, we
are serving you the finest wine, our first strength. It
features a plethora of industry leaders, game changers,
culture shapers and global transformers of African
heritage who shared igniting insights for attaining peak
performance in their own space.
We have quality articles on creativity, problem solving &
change; leadership & entrepreneurship; environment,
social & governance; personal growth & transformation;
process, innovation & technology; people, productivity
& synergy among a host of others from the African
continent. And we have some brain teasers, too. All
these align with our quest to build Africa, one mind at
a time.
And back in the office again in the first week of January
2023, I flipped through the mind-blowing pages of
our journey. All the little manoeuvers and behind-the-
scenes were just amazing! We couldn’t be more proud
of this moment.
We are utterly excited to share this dream with you
today. We couldn’t have come this far without your
continuous support. We can’t wait to serve you yet
another sumptuous edition for your growth.
We hope to keep dishing out enriching nuggets that
will get you on a fast track in your vocation, enable you
to build profitable growth and leave a legacy for Africa
and the world. Do watch out for future editions. From
all of us at The Peak Performer Africa, we say cheers to
excellence!
Dr AbiolaSalami
Editor-in-Chief
| 3
CONTENT
| THE PEAK PERFORMER

CREATIVITY, PROBLEM SOLVING & CHANGE THE COO’S CORNER COMMUNICATION, MARKETING & SALES

6 | ABCDE: GUARANTEED 40 | JOHN 34 | AMEYAW DEBRAH:

STRATEGIES FOR OKONKWO: BLOGGING FROM GHANA
PROBLEM SOLVING EVERY COO’S GUIDE TO THE WORLD.
Problem-solving skills are TO DRIVE PEAK
PERFORMANCE In a world full of game players,
fundamental for success in award-winning Ghanaian
practically every field. As times continue to
Celebrity blogger, Ameyaw
challenge the status quo of
Debrah, has distinguished himself
skills, knowledge and process
PEOPLE, PRODUCTIVITY & SYNERGY as a game changer.
so do great leaders.
9 | GEN ZS: HOW TO
INSPIRE THEM FOR PEAK
PERFORMANCE.
Find out all you need to
get this unique generation
motivated and productive at work

PERSONAL GROWTH
43 | KAMIL OLUFOWOBI:
THE CONNECTOLOGIST
TO KNOW
Every individual has a dream.
For some, it is to set new records GLOCALISATION: DR IBIENE
DR OBADARE OGOLO’S 5 KEY
while for others it is to propel their PETER ADEWALE’S NUGGETS FOR

15 24
academic portfolios. QUEST IN LEADING CEOS TO
CYBERSECURITY CHAMPION
SPACE EXCELLENCE
SPECIAL FEATURE
46 | NIYI ADESANYA
LEADERSHIP BOOTCAMP @ 5
For Niyi Adesanya Leadership
Bootcamp (NALB) it is five years
down and forever to go in its noble
quest to impact individuals and
organisations in Nigeria and Africa...

THE COACHING CAFE

50 | HOW YOUR THOUGHTS

CAN HEAL YOUR BODY
“Watch out what you ask for, you NIKE BAJOMO’S CHAMPIONING

37 28
just may get it.” As it turns out STRIVE FOR ESG FOR
there’s a whole lot more truth in this EXCELLENCE SUSTAINABLE
AT STANBICIBTC ECOSYSTEM.
statement than we ever knew.

MIND YOUR BUSINESS

STRATEGY & GROWTH XPLORE AFRICA
53 | SIX CRITICAL
BEHAVIOURS RESTRICTING 20 | 6 IMPORTANT 55 | AFRICA AND
PEAK PERFORMANCE ON REASONS TO THE DAWN OF
YOUR TEAM SEPARATE PLANNING INDEPENDENCE
FROM STRATEGY
It takes an honest self-assessment This debut edition of
There are many reasons Xplore Africa details
to reveal that the person you see
to separate planning from freedom from colonialism
in the mirror could be the biggest
strategy. This article explores across the continent.
challenge on your team.
some of them.

4 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

 DR. ABIOLA SALAMI
INTERNATIONAL
LEADERSHIP
BOOTCAMP
September 20th - 22nd, 2023.

THEME
DRIVING TRANSFORMATIONAL
LEADERSHIP With

FACULTY

DR. ABIOLA SALAMI PROF. DANA BORN

Worldclass Performance Strategist Harvard University
/ Host

Registration Fee:
$2,500.00
per participant
(Inclusive of 3 nights stay
APRIL — JUNE 2023 at Eko Hotel & Suites)
For enquiries call
+23490901234567
hello@abiolachamp.com
| 5
CREATIVITY, PROBLEM SOLVING & CHANGE | THE PEAK PERFORMER

ABCDE
GUARANTEED STRATEGIES FOR
PROBLEM SOLVING
Problem-solving skills are
fundamental for success in
practically every field. You need
to be able to identify a problem,
think through, and synthesize
relevant information and knowledge
to arrive at a solution. This will
enable you to tackle issues as they
arise rather than being thrown off
balance by them.

You can read similar articles on https://thepeakperformer.africa/category/creativity-problemsolving-change/

Y
OU CAN IMPROVE YOUR problem-solving skills
with practice, dedication, and persistence. The
strategies discussed in this article will help you
improve your problem-solving skills so that you will
always be prepared to effectively confront life’s unexpected
challenges.
A. ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS. When you’re trying to
solve a problem, one of the first things you want to do is ask
yourself the right questions.
Start by identifying what kind of problem you’re dealing with.
Is it a goal that you want to achieve? A decision that you
need to make? An area of your life that you want to improve?
Find out the root cause of the problem.
What is the source of the issue that you’re facing? Is there
something external that’s creating the
problem, or is there an internal factor that’s
causing you to struggle? Be willing to ask
questions that will help you get to the heart
of the issue and identify potential areas of
improvement.
As Clayton Christensen said, “Questions are
places in your mind where answers fit. If you
haven’t asked the question, the answer has
nowhere to go.”
B. BRAINSTORM WITH OTHERS. Some-
times, the best way to solve a problem is to
do some creative brainstorming. None of us
is as brilliant or as effective as all of us.

6 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

CREATIVITY, PROBLEM SOLVING & CHANGE | THE PEAK PERFORMER

tackle each piece individually.

This can be especially useful when you’re trying to solve
a problem that involves multiple steps or is extremely
complicated.
With this approach, you will be able to focus on one part
of the problem at a time, which will help you get through
the challenge more quickly.
You’ll also be able to identify solutions for each part of
the problem more easily because you won’t be looking
at the whole problem at once.
D. DON’T SHY AWAY FROM RESEARCHING
TANGENTS. Sometimes, when you’re trying to solve a
problem, you’ll find that you start researching different
tangential issues that seem relevant. That’s normal!
When you’re focused on solving a problem, your brain
will naturally try to solve other related problems. That’s
because the human brain is programmed to look for
connections and relationships — it’s how we learn new
things.
Don’t shy away from researching tangents when you’re
trying to solve a problem. If you’re learning new things
and they seem relevant to solving the
problem, keep going. The more
you understand the problem,
the easier it will be to solve,
plus you might discover
new solutions you hadn’t
Thus, you can arrive at a thought of before.
solution quicker when E. LEARN FROM
you discuss the problem FAILURE. There’s no
with others. If you work such thing as a perfect
in a team or collaborate plan, and things can
often, consider bringing go wrong. When they
the problem to your group do, it is best to view
and brainstorming ideas for that failure as a learning
solutions. event. Pick the issue
You can then combine ideas and apart, figure out where you
suggestions, and come up with better went wrong, learn from your
solutions. Furthermore, brainstorming is a mistakes, and move on.
great way to build successful team relationships It may be tempting to remain at that point
and collaborate with others. of failure and berate yourself. However, your time is
C. CRUSH THE PROBLEM INTO PIECES. One better spent analyzing the erroneous steps you took and
other way to approach a challenging problem is ensuring that you do not make the same mistake again.
to break it down into smaller pieces and then

APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 7

 Available in print, digital & virtual course formats
www.themagicofeiproject.com

8 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

PEOPLE, PRODUCTIVITY & SYNERGY | THE PEAK PERFORMER

GEN Zs:
HOW TO INSPIRE
THEM FOR PEAK
PERFORMANCE

S
earching for ways to inspire Gen Zs
at work? Find out all you need to get
this unique generation motivated and
productive at work in this post.
Millennials have been the focus of many
workplace conversations and articles, but Gen Z
is the real decisive factor in your organization.
The generation born between 1997 and 2012
is now coming into adulthood with a lot of
potential in the workplace. They are poised
to become the most educated cohort ever in
history.
These young adults are tech-savvy and prefer
virtual collaboration over face-to-face meetings.
Studies have shown that Generation Z makes up
about 30 percent of the world’s population and
will constitute 27% of the workforce by 2025.
So it is important that you understand them and
know how best to motivate them.

You can read similar articles on

https://thepeakperformer.africa/category/people-productivity-synergy/

APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 9


Recruit differently for
Gen Z employees.
When recruiting Gen Z employees,
managers may want to do things
differently than they do for other
generations.
For example, managers may want to
place less emphasis on face-to-face
interviews. Instead, they may want to
rely heavily on online assessments and
video interviews.
This can help recruiters reduce the
time they spend on each hire and
make the process more accessible
to Gen Z candidates who may not
have the same flexibility to travel for
interviews that older generations
have.
Managers may also want to consider
using different types of rewards and
incentives to attract Gen Z employees.
For example, Gen Zers are drawn to
work that offers the chance to solve
real problems, make an impact, and
be creative.
Managers can meet these needs by
adjusting their job descriptions and
recruitment materials to highlight
these opportunities.
WHO REALLY
ARE THE GEN ZS?
10 |
PEOPLE, PRODUCTIVITY & SYNERGY
4 WAY S T O I N S P I R E
G E N Z S AT W O R K
Take a more risk-aware
approach to business.
As with their communication
preferences, the desire of Gen Zs
to take a more risk-aware approach
to business can be seen in the way
they shop. Compared to preceding
generations, they are much more
likely to search online for information
and to read reviews before making
a purchase. This desire to make
informed decisions is likely to translate
into their approach to business.
Gen Zers may also be more likely to
invest in companies that support social
causes, either through philanthropy
or through programs that offer lower
carbon emissions or more sustainable
materials, for example.
In a survey of Gen Zers, 69% reported
that they are likely to purchase from a
company that supports a cause they
care about.
You can therefore inspire Gen Zs and
keep them engaged by highlighting
the importance of social issues, for
example through advocacy and
community service.
Don’t underestimate
the influence of
collaboration tools.
Designing your workspace to
encourage collaboration is another
way to inspire Gen Z employees.
Contrary to the general assumption
that Gen Zers don’t want to be in the
same room with their colleagues, Gen
Zers actually crave communication. In
fact, many Gen Zers prefer to work
in teams than alone, although they
may prefer to do it via technology like
video conferences.
When managers choose
communication tools, they need to
Generation Z (or more commonly Gen Z for short), colloquially known as
zoomers, is the demographic cohort succeeding Millennials and preceding
Generation Alpha. Researchers and popular media use the mid-to-late
1990s as starting birth years and the early 2010s as ending birth years.
be aware that Gen Zers may have
different communication preferences
than other generations.
For example, while millennials may
prefer to communicate via email,
Gen Zers may prefer Google Meet or
Zoom. They also have very different
technology needs from other
generations.
You may want to invest in virtual
reality, artificial intelligence, interactive
robots, and other technologies that
meet the needs of this generation.
Offer flexibility and
opportunities to
make meaningful
contributions.
When it comes to compensation and
benefits, Gen Zers prefer the same
things that other generations care
about.
However, they are also likely to
place a higher priority on work-life
balance. Hence, managers can offer
more remote work opportunities to
accommodate their desire to strike
a balance between work and other
interests.
Another way to inspire Gen Zers
is to communicate clearly and be
transparent about the company’s
goals and priorities.
Encourage them to share their
ideas and suggestions for how the
organization can be more successful.
When you make them feel that
they are an important part of the
organization, they will be motivated
to learn relevant skills that will
equip them to make meaningful
contributions.
APRIL — JUNE 2023
The Peak Performing
Woman of The Year
2023
Summit, Exhibition & Awards

THEME
Embracing Equity for a
More Sustainable Future
DATE
Friday 23rd June, 2023.

REGISTRATION FEE:
N50,000.00 per Participant

Learn more here

www.thepeakperformer.africa/woman
APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 11
 THE PEAK PERFORMING WOMAN | THE PEAK PERFORMER

A Practical Guide
to Working
Under Pressure
You can also find this article on www.thepeakperformer.africa/woman

F
or many women in highly
demanding careers, working under
pressure is par for the course.
From meeting an aggressive deadline to
juggling multiple projects and tackling a
high-pressure presentation, we all have to
perform when the heat is on.
Of course, this is not limited to one gender; But while stress and pressure are unavoidable,
however, the situation is likely to take a heavier they don’t have to become your constant
toll on women for quite a few reasons including companions. You can learn how to work under
cultural expectations. pressure more effectively and even thrive when
According to Deloitte’s Women @ Work report, the stakes are high.
women now make up almost half (43%) of Many successful women have mastered the art
the global workforce and tend to outperform of working under pressure, leaving a trail that
men when it comes to some key performance others can follow by adopting the same mindset
indicators such as work-life balance and job and taking corresponding action.
satisfaction. In this piece, we will explore some proven tips
This is why we’re seeing more and more women that will equip you to better manage stress,
take on leadership roles as well as reinvent the adapt to changing circumstances, and excel in
ways they handle projects especially when they challenging situations.
have to work from home or any other remote
location. Know your limits and set boundaries to reduce
chances of working under pressure
Being a peak-performing woman comes with its
Being at the top of your game can often mean
own set of challenges. Among other things, you
long days, high-pressure projects, and lots of
have to balance work with personal life while
travel. This is especially true in senior-level roles.
dealing with gender stereotypes along the way,
If you’re particularly bad at setting boundaries,
all of which further compound the pressure at
working in a job like this can lead to burnout.
work.

12 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

THE PEAK PERFORMING WOMAN
As you work towards growing
your career and moving up
the ladder, it’s crucial that you
understand your limits and set
boundaries that work for your
particular needs and goals.
Be clear about the time
commitments you can
realistically make and don’t
be afraid to politely turn down
projects that will add needless
pressure to your workload.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
when you need it
While many women are rising
into leadership in the workplace,
there is still a significant gap in
the executive ranks.
As such, if you’re a woman at
the top of your game and you’re
looking to scale your operations,
you may find yourself needing
help from time to time.
Leveraging your support
network is key when working
under pressure.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
APRIL — JUNE 2023
Leverage your support network.
Delegate tasks that you don’t
necessarily have to do yourself.
That way, you are empowering
others while saving yourself
some stress.
Another good option to explore
is hiring virtual assistants.
Normalize saying no when
necessary to avoid working
under pressure
Being a peak-performing woman
also means knowing when
and how to say no. Don’t feel
pressured to do everything that’s
asked of you.
Sometimes you need to say
no to certain projects if they’re
too time-consuming or don’t
advance your goals.
Refuse to take on too many
projects at once, Say no to
visiting clients or team members
at the office if you can easily
communicate with them
remotely. Saying no to the things
that don’t add to your career
path or help advance your
goals is essential if you want
to constantly be at your best
without burning out.
You also need to be mindful of
who you’re communicating with
and how often. Keep the people
that you need to communicate
with close and others at arm’s
length.
Take time to care for yourself
and recharge
As we observed earlier, there
are many ways women are
outperforming men in today’s
workplace. This includes work-
life balance.
Many women are taking time
off to care for their families or
themselves. This is a great thing,
| THE PEAK PERFORMER
but it’s also important to know
when it’s time to re-enter the
workplace and be ready to hit
the ground running.
Take time off when you need it
and be mindful of the way your
body, emotions, and mind are
feeling when returning to the
office.
Find ways to recharge your
batteries when you need to, so
that you will have the energy
and full presence of mind to
tackle challenges at work.
Conclusion
There are many ways that you
can manage pressure as a
peak-performing woman. It all
boils down to being mindful
of ways to keep yourself on
track, avoiding stress triggers,
delegating responsibilities,
communicating effectively, and
being mindful of your limits.
Keep these tips in mind so that
you can achieve your personal
and professional goals in the
most efficient way possible.
Always remember that pressure
doesn’t have to get the better
of you. You can maintain your
composure and still do your best
work even while working under
pressure.
Loved this article? Then
you absolutely want to get
your copy of The Peak
Performing Woman’s
Companion by Dr. Abiola
Salami for more practical
insights on a wide range
of relevant issues. Visit
www.thepeakperformer.
africa/woman-guidebook/ to
pre-order your copy.
| 13
14 | APRIL — JUNE 2023
| THE PEAK PERFORMER

COVER STORY

GLOCALISATION:
DR OBADARE
PETER ADEWALE’S
QUEST IN
LEADING THE
CYBERSECURITY
SPACE
From a thought leader to a foremost credentialled IT
Assurance expert, there is a lot you don’t know about Dr
Obadare Peter Adewale. He is the Co-founder and Chief
Visionary Officer of Digital Encode Ltd, a leading consulting
and integration firm founded in 2003 that specialises in
the design, management, and security of business-critical
networks, telecommunications environments and other
information technology infrastructures.

APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 15

COVER STORY
Today, Adewale is one titanic
character who has attained
monumental feats with over 52
certifications and counting to his
credit.
First, he is saddled with
governance responsibilities like
strategic yearly projection amid the
Red Ocean business environment,
then positive disruptive business
transformation growth ideations
and its realisation, formation
of mutual collaborations or
alliances with like-minded industry
stakeholders that fit into the
company’s vision DNA among
others. In this exclusive interview
with TPP, he speaks on the need
to build leadership capacity and
capability within the team that are
relevant to the economic growth of
today’s mentality.
What Has Been the Growth
Trajectory of Digital Encode Ltd
and What Entrepreneurial Skills
Would You Say Guided You So
Far?
I must say transparently, at the
inauguration of the business, it
was not a smooth ride to gain
16 |
| THE PEAK PERFORMER
recognition, especially being an based loopholes, inadequate
indigenous company in healthy cybersecurity leadership
competition with the most popular participation, usage of end-of-
brands of those days. However, life technology tools (Hardware
fast-tracking that journey to this and Software), system patches
day, Digital Encode Limited is a mismanagement and business
“Global Brand” that is actively email compromise as a result of
rendering IT assurance services social engineering.
to both indigenous and foreign
We have been able to assist our
corporations across the globe.
partners with services that could
This, in summary, expresses
create reasonable assurance against
positive growth. I remain resolute
the aforementioned cyber maladies
with entrepreneurship skills which
by sensitising the leadership,
have been my bedrock over the
starting with their boards and
years. They are vision-mindedness,
C’levels, implementing standards
discipline, focus, value-driven,
for their organisation such as
doggedness to succeed, business
Information security management
resilience, fairness and credibility.
system (ISO 27001:2022),
Cybersecurity guidelines (ISO
You Have Achieved Something
27032:2012), Cloud Security
One Can Consider Monumental
guidelines (ISO 27017:2015),
In The Tech Space With
Vulnerabilities and Penetration Test
Countless Certificates to Your
with the inclusion of remediation
Credit. What Is the Drive?
supports and execution of Social
It is on record that I have been the
Engineering simulation tests at the
foremost credentialled IT Assurance
various strata of the organisation.
expert with over 52 certifications
Also, implementation of Payment
and still counting. The drive is
Card Industry Security Standard
simple; technology is evolving daily;
(PCIDSS) for those with card
they enable diverse businesses and
services operations. To ensure
new risks are emerging, too. To be
cyber maturity in these areas,
a seasoned expert in this dynamic
we engage our partners (loyal
field as a positive change agent as
customers) consistently for
well as being resourceful to both
continual improvement practices.
private and public sectors, it is
expedient that I always detox stale
Every Organisation Is Defined by
information and relearn new skills.
The Processes And Cultures That
To verify these new knowledge
Influence Its Operation. How
areas, I validate them with globally
Have You Managed To Build A
recognised certifications for my all-
Culture Of Excellence At Digital
time relevance.
Encode Ltd?
At Digital Encode Limited, our
What Are The Biggest
value system is based on integrity in
Cybersecurity Threats Right
all we do. Thus, we embrace these
Now And How Have You Helped
three core values namely: we are
Your Clients to Address This?
customer driven; we understand
The biggest cyber threats
our esteemed customers’ present
are inadequate competency
and future need to continuously act
developments of the workforce,
to exceed their expectations; and
ransomware, vulnerabilities
to be their trusted advisor.
emanating from third-party
vendors or suppliers, cloud- We are performance-driven; setting
APRIL — JUNE 2023
 COVER STORY
| THE PEAK PERFORMER

To be a seasoned
expert in this
dynamic field as
a positive change
agent as well as
being resourceful
to both private and
public sectors, it
is expedient that I
always detox stale
information and
relearn new skills.

Dr Obadare Peter

APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 17

aggressive performance targets to
measure our success by benchmarking
ourselves globally. We value our
people and their diversity. We value
fairness in our dealings and recognise
individual and team performance. We
value an entrepreneurial and proactive
approach.
Also, we strongly believe in active
learning and will invest in the ongoing
development of our skills. All these
have helped us to build a culture of
distinction at our organisation and in
the marketplace.
You Served As Technical Partner
To CBN For Over A Decade. To
What Extent Do You Think Public-
Private Partnerships Contribute
To A Nation’s Growth And
Development?
No nation’s public sector works in
isolation when it comes to nation-
building. I must say, it is of high
necessity and it is expedient that
mutual relationships established by
both parties are robust and healthy
in an objective mannerism to tackle
the growing technological and
cybersecurity challenges within their
sovereignty and beyond.
The public sector must provide the
enabling environment in terms of
policies, regulations and national
critical infrastructures as a stakeholder
for the private sector to leverage.
And in return, the private sector must
be committed to excellent service
delivery, job creation, and fulfilment
of their statutory duties and actively
engage the government of the day
through their associations or special
interest group, to deliberate on matters
that could impact the confidentiality,
integrity and availability of any
organisation’s asset which could be
people-based, process or technology.
There Is A Global Talent
Movement Awakening In Nigeria
Called “Japa Syndrome”. What
Are Your Thoughts For Both
Those Considering Taking The
Opportunity And Those Who Have
Chosen To Build Locally?
18 |
“Japa syndrome” is a trending slogan
in the business ecosystem of today,
which is not different from “Andrew is
checking out of the country”. Nigeria
must survive these days. My thought is
very simple and explicit; be strategic
to build capacity and capability that
are relevant for the economic growth
of today’s mentality. If you have
not mentally “Japa” to acquire the
germane skills you need for value
creation, it does not matter where the
fellow is, the person’s quality of life
in terms of earning power will still be
stunted.
It is even worse abroad because it
is no man’s land. This means it will
be tougher to cope with survival
because you will be competing with
global brains. In summary, wealth
gravitates towards value creators, not
consumers. And a diamond in Nigeria
is a diamond in any part of the world.
Be sensitive, and keep upgrading your
skills, and areas of relevance to thrive
in your field.
Of All The Hurdles You Have Had
To Overcome, Which Was The Most
Challenging For You And How Did
You Navigate It?
The most challenging period in our
journey as a company was gaining
market share while at the starting
phase. Proving to prospective clients
that you can create the same value
as the expatriate organisations that
competed with our organisation was
very tough.
Navigating through the challenges
does not come easy. But my key
strength, which is coincidentally that
of my Co-founder too, was relevant
sound knowledge in specific areas
that the industry needs which are in
tandem with our vision and mission
drive.
We developed the best-seasoned
skills and pioneered the indigenous
evolution of IT assurance consultancy
services through active awareness
with stakeholders and service value
creation. Our loyal customers are still
on the journey with us to date.
Could You List Five Books that
Transformed Your Mindset?
I’m an avid reader, but will just limit
some of the books to five. They are
the Holy Bible; It’s Not Over Till It’s
Over by Pastor Mathew Ashimolowo;
The Assignment Vol1 – The Dream
& The Destiny by Mike Murdock;
Towards Mental Exploits by Bishop
David Oyedepo; The Road Ahead by
Bill Gates, Rick Adamson et al.
Is There Any Other Thing You
Would Like To Add?
On a final note, nothing great is
achieved in isolation. As a chief
visionary officer, your unwavering
organisation vision, mission, objectives
and strategy are your core strength
and tools, with the trained people
resource being your collaborative
greatest assets.
APRIL — JUNE 2023
APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 19
 STRATEGY & GROWTH
6 IMPORTANT REASONS TO SEPARATE
PLANNING FROM STRATEGY
You can read similar articles on https://thepeakperformer.africa/category/strategy-growth/
T
HERE ARE MANY REASONS to separate
planning from strategy. This article explores
some of them.
Even though planning and strategy are often used
interchangeably, they are two different concepts.
For example, if you have to develop a document with insights
and ideas on how to promote, sell, and distribute your
company’s products and services, are you going to work on a
marketing plan or a marketing strategy?
You are probably trying to figure out which one would be
appropriate and why.
Things get even fuzzier when you start to talk about
developing a strategic plan. What exactly is a strategic plan?
Are you developing a strategy or a plan?
The essence of asking these questions is not to have you
answer them right away. The purpose is to have you think
deliberately about these concepts as we work towards gaining
a clear understanding of each one.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PLANNING
AND STRATEGY?
Strategy is about making decisions that will lead to the desired
outcome. Planning is about translating those decisions into
definite action steps.
The point of strategy is to use a variety of tactics to get what
you want. Planning is meant to break down a strategy into
specific, manageable steps that can be carried out over time.
Strategy tells you where to go and what to focus on. Planning
tells you when and how to get there.
Strategy provides the rationale and the basis for working
towards certain desired outcomes. Planning involves
clarifying the required commitments for executing the
strategy.
20 |
| THE PEAK PERFORMER
You can compare planning and strategy to the process
of solving a puzzle. Strategy paints a picture of the end
result while planning arranges the pieces of the puzzle
to bring that picture to life.
Many organizations default to planning instead of
strategy because planning is easier. It is essentially
about determining what you want to do and how you
want to allocate your resources.
But planning without a strategy is futile, or at best,
ineffective. If you make a plan without first creating a
strategy, you’re probably not going to feel happy and
satisfied when you achieve your goals.
You will not be able to determine when the outcomes
have been achieved because you did not define those
outcomes in the first place.
Worse, you are likely to keep changing directions along
the way, which makes it less likely that you will ever get
to where you want to go.
On the other hand, strategy is based on a set of
assumptions that must have been tested and validated.
It also takes into account everything that could change
the chances of getting the desired result.
In a presentation at Harvard Business School, Roger
Martin, Professor Emeritus at University of Toronto’s
Rotman School of Management, defines strategy as ‘an
integrative set of choices that positions you on a playing
field of your choice in a way that you win.’ In other
words, without a strategy, you are not playing to win;
you are simply ‘playing to play’.
APRIL — JUNE 2023
An impressive plan will not necessarily create meaningful progress
or sustainable growth. But a well thought-out strategy will always
1 STRATEGY AND
PLANNING REQUIRE
lead to an execution plan that gives you an edge over the competition. DIFFERENT FACULTIES:
This is why Felix Oberholzer-Gee, author of Better, Simpler Strategy, To come up with a
describes strategy as a plan for creating value. It’s easier to plan for strategy, you need to be
multiple scenarios when you separate planning from strategy. Strategy able to see far into the
is like setting out on a journey without a clear purpose or direction. future and know a lot
And developing a strategy without an execution plan is like painting the about your industry and
picture of a desired outcome and then going to sleep. the business
environment as a whole.
As Alan Lakein observed, “Planning is bringing the future into the This is different from
present so that you can do something about it now.” It is therefore being able to figure out
evident that both strategy and planning are indispensable to business what steps need to be
success. taken to put the strategy
But business leaders need to know that the two concepts are different into action and get the
and approach each one in the right way. This distinction is important desired results.
for the following reasons.

2
3
CAPITALIZE ON YOUR UNIQUE
ADVANTAGE:
CLARIFY WHAT IT MEANS TO WIN:
By coming up with a clear strategy
Keeping planning and strategy separate will help and using that as the basis for your
you figure out what success means for your planning, you will be able to figure
business. You will be able to identify long-term out where your company stands
goals and their corresponding short-term objectives. relative to other players in the
If you lump planning and strategy together, you are industry. This will help you
in prime position for a rude awakening when you understand where your strengths
find out that you have achieved your goal, but it is lie and how you can use them to
not what you wanted. What’s the use of gaining your advantage.
speed when you are headed in the wrong direction?

4 CHART YOUR OWN

PATH TO SUCCESS:
5 MAXIMIZE
When you make a
distinction between
planning and strategy, you
will be able to set your
priorities right. It will help
you focus on the
objectives and key results
that truly matter and
avoid being distracted by
demands that appear to
be urgent but are actually
not important. You will
also be able to find your
own way to success
instead of playing the
comparison game.
YOUR IMPACT:
6 BUILD A RESILIENT
When you
understand the
differ-ence between
strategy and
planning, you will be
better positioned to
allocate resources
in a way that is
both efficient and
effective. Ultimately,
this will minimize
waste while also
increasing your
return on invested
capital.
ORGANIZATION:
Once you have developed a
clear and simple strategy, it
will be easier to plan for
different scenarios. You can
anticipate risks that could stop
you from getting what you
want and new opportunities
that you can take advantage
of. This will help you to be
proactive in your response to
situations. As a result, you will
be able to build a business that
endures despite changes in the
external environment.

APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 21

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CEO’S CORNER | THE PEAK PERFORMER

DR IBIENE
OGOLO’S
5 KEY
NUGGETS
FOR CEOS TO
CHAMPION
EXCELLENCE
You may not have heard of Dr Ibiene Ogolo, but you must
have come across Azuri Peninsula in the glorious Eko
Atlantic City in the Victoria Island of Lagos State, Nigeria.
Yes, that is one of the feats of Ogolo, who is classified as
the true definition of “not all heroes wear capes”.
S
HE DOUBLES AS THE
founder of IBIENE.Com,
a lifestyle magazine that
celebrates and hopes to
preserve awe-inspiring cultures
in Africa through documentation.
This pacesetter has delved into
other sectors including agriculture,
mining and solid minerals among
others. Owing to her exceptional
contributions, she was decorated
as the Most Influential People of
African Descent (MIPAD). With over
25 years of experience in various
sectors, this seasoned professional
captures five key things every CEO
must heed to drive excellence.
Could You Take Us Down
Memory Lane On The Most
Remarkable Moments In Your
Career?
I have so many examples to share
but will bring to light the day I
officially accepted the offer to run
Eko Development company from
scratch. I saw an opportunity to
not only express myself but do that
which seemed impossible since I
had never held nor managed such
a portfolio.
Off I went to the drawing board
to ascertain the skills required and
was blessed with the best bosses in
the industry who not only groomed
me but set such high standards
that I was determined to surpass.
Yes, the road was filled with loads
of obstacles and challenges but
today when anyone looks at
the skyline of Lagos my name is
imprinted in the sands of time.
Kindly visit the AZURI TOWERS to
see what determination can create,
and deliver.
What Are The Top Five Things
Every CEO Must Pay Attention
To Drive Peak Performance?
The CEO’s job is like no other in
the organisation. It is infinite. The
CEO is ultimately responsible for
every decision and action of every
APRIL — JUNE 2023
member of the company, including
those decisions and actions of
which they are not aware. Whether
you believe it or not, this same
person is responsible for peak
performance in the organisation,
whether for her (him)self or the
employees.
The first is to have immense respect
and appreciation for a strong
foundation. High performers
are committed to mastering the
fundamentals, rather than trying to
shortcut or skip steps. If you want
to thrive in the world of business
today, you need to be willing to
sacrifice instant gratification to
build a solid foundation for success
that can sustain those results over
the long haul.
Secondly, be open to feedback.
Instead of taking feedback
personally, welcome it. High
performers are coachable. When
someone offers you feedback,
especially someone competent,
whose opinion and results are
valid, they are giving you the gift of
pointing out blind spots you may
not have otherwise recognised
and are using their expertise and
experience to show you a more
effective and/or efficient way.
That’s how you excel in those areas
you are seeking improvement.
The third is to remain hyper-aware
of your mindset, habits and focus.
As a high performer, your main
objective is to show up as the best
version of yourself and do that with
consistency. Then you can hold
others to that same standard.
The CEO is ultimately responsible for
every decision and action of every
member of the company, including
those decisions and actions of which
they are not aware.
The fourth thing to consider is to
use the Change Approach. One of
the CEO’s most critical roles is to
create an environment of continual
reinvention, even if such an
environment produces anxiety and
confusion, leads to some strategic
mistakes, and temporarily hurts
financial performance. Change
comes with its ups and downs,
right?
For the fifth, let me go with
some don’ts of a CEO; from
failing to diagnose the execution
weaknesses of their businesses
to make decisions about their
teams too quickly, neglecting
relationships with the execution
side of the business and failing
to develop a coherent, efficient
strategy deployment process while
maintaining execution excellence.
How Do You Drive Synergy In
Your Team?
I learn synergy from a few sports
teams. As we can all see from the
ongoing FIFA World Cup, they
play different roles with a common
aim in mind – to put the ball in the
net.
This is also needed in every
organisation but getting everyone
to take care of their responsibility
while working towards a common
goal can be tasking for some
CEOs.So, here’s what I would
suggest.
} SOW COMMITMENT: Truth
is, being a member of a team
requires personal commit-
ment and dedication to the
| 25
CEO’S CORNER | THE PEAK PERFORMER

overall success of a team. This ties closely into

empowerment because a team can’t function
properly if no one trusts their teammates to
have their back.
} BE CLEAR: For a team to cooperate properly,
everyone on the team needs to know what the
objective is, and everyone’s objective needs
to be the same. Be clear not just in words, but
in action.
Make synergy just more than a buzzword. You
can appreciate teams who succeed with the
synergy idea so others can learn from them.
} COMMUNICATE: Once everyone knows
where the hoop is, the team needs to com-
municate so each player knows what his or her
teammates need from them. There are times
you’ll need to be polite and other times you
need to be direct.

5 KEY CONCERNS EVERY CEO IS LIKELY TO HAVE

With the Covid-19 pandemic, a lot has
changed for businesses, causing the CEO’s
concerns to multiply. Here are some I would
be concerned about:
1. CLEAR VISION
What is your company’s vision? If a visitor walks into
your building and is opportune to ask three people,
can they articulate it? Can they describe what the
vision means to them and how the work they do
supports the vision and brings meaning to their jobs?
2. DRIVING INSPIRATION AND MOTIVATION
One of the driving forces behind company growth is
a team that’s inspired and motivated to show up to
work every day and accomplish goals. With that said,
one of the top leadership challenges is inspiring and
motivating your team to be the best they can be.
When employees show up to work every day, they
want to know why they’re there.
3. DECISION-MAKING
As the CEO, you’re the captain of the ship, hence the
need to be a strong decision-maker. With the current
realities, each day, you’ll be faced with decisions like
terminating an employee or making key financial
choices. Some of these decisions will not be as diffi-
cult to make as others.
4. EXECUTIVE ALIGNMENT
Imagine being a fish trying to swim upstream. It’s
tough to make progress. That’s what happens when
your key players are not all on the same page.
5. STAYING ABOVE WATER FINANCIALLY
From payment of workers’ wages at the end of the
month to expenditures running into multiple millions
as well as the question of “how much did we make in
the end?” Any CEO, at some point in their career, have
had the above points keep them awake at night.

26 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

SUSTAINABILITY SCOOP | THE PEAK PERFORMER

Championing
ESG for
Sustainable
Ecosystem.
Dr Bankole Allibay is an environmental, social
and governance (ESG) expert cum Global Social
Performance Lead whose expansive knowledge and
wealth of experience exceeds many frontiers. With
numerous recognitions and achievements under
his belt, the Certified Process Analyst underscores
the need for organisations, governments and their
stakeholders to redirect their focus towards managing
ESG risks, impact and opportunities to stabilise
businesses and build a sustainable framework. He
speaks extensively with TPP also about ESG as the life
wire of any sustainable organisation.

You can read similar articles on https://thepeakperformer.africa/category/esg-2/

28 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

SUSTAINABILITY SCOOP | THE PEAK PERFORMER

As An ESG Expert, What Are Those Major organisations with strong corporate cultures. The list is
Sustainable And Ethical Practices Every Organi- endless, depending on the nature of the business.
sation Needs For Peak Performance?
Each of the three pillars of ESG – Environmental, Social Who Should Pay Attention To Esg, In Terms Of
and Governance – has ethical standards and practices Employees, Employers And Or Consumers To
every organisation should inculcate. At the base of ESG Attain Sterling Growth?
is understanding the level of environmen-tal, social ESG is everyone’s business. From employers/business
and governance exposure in terms of risks and impact. owners, employees and consumers to society at
The core of ESG practice applies to all organisations large. However, the implementation of ESG should
regardless of their size, scope or indus-try of practice. be champi-oned by corporates and governments
because they are keychain sections of the wider
Some of the core sections of ESG practice include
sustainability discourse. The government
environmental and social risk screening, environmental
should collaboratively develop construc-
and social impact assessment, management planning,
tive and supportive sustainability
implementation support, risk ranking, risk and impact
and particularly on ESG policies to
management monitoring, and other emerging and
promote the sustainability and the
cross-cutting issues. Technical subject matter areas in
ESG journey of the country.
this domain could include resource efficiency, waste
management, equality, occupational health and safety The corporates should play
(OHS), human rights, product safety instrumentation, their part by contributing
stakeholders engagement and FPIC, and good to the policy discourse and
stakeholder engagement and FPIC among several complying with regulations
other critical risk and impact issues. and other best practices. The
shareholders, stakeholders and
From the foregoing, it is evident that, unlike CSR, ESG
the wider public continue to
is not optional or just a “good thing to do”. It is the life
retain the position of demanding
wire of any sustainable organisation.
accountability for these processes
What Are Some Of Those Corporate Policies That and procedures. In earnest,
Can Address Social Behaviour In The Workplace? everybody has a role to
ESG is a critical part of our existence as we have it play.
today, not just a subset of sustainability practice. At
the corporate level, I could go as far as saying that
any business establishment without a responsive ESG
and indeed a sustainability framework does not have a
business.
For the most part, ESG and the wider sustainability
frame-works help organisations to proactively measure
their risks and business-wide exposure and help adapt
the business module to a safe or, at least, calculated
risk mode. In this case, ESG helps stabilise businesses.
It helps to protect revenue by proactively managing
volatility and potentiali-ties that can disrupt business
negatively.
ESG also helps to prevent reputational risk, which
has been voted to be the biggest in current times
as many investments and related transactions are
made based on perceptions. ESG helps create
accountability to the planet, the people and the
wider ecosystem. ESG promotes a corporate culture
of equal opportunity and win-win. For the market, a
strong ESG commitment is often a USP for high-end

APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 29


SPOTLIGHT
For the most part,
ESG and the wider
sustainability
frame-works help
organisations
to proactively
measure their risks
and business-wide
exposure and help
adapt the business
module to a safe or,
at least, calculated
risk mode.
How Can We Make the
Environment More Sustain-able,
Using An Everyday Illustration
For Better Com-prehension?
We can make the environment more
sustainable by using a lifecycle
approach and thinking organically
about environ-mental sustainability.
We can do this by asking the right
questions before our actions:
what are the implications of
our individual, corporate and
even collective actions on the
environment? Simple decisions
such as, should I buy bottled water
or buy a lifelong water bottle?
Should I buy from a company that
has a good HR policy or should I
just buy from a cheap company
that uses forced and child labour?
Should I use solar or buy a noisy
diesel generator? Should I support
gender equality in the workplace or
not? Should I use resource-efficient
appliances? etc.
These daily questions determine
the future of our environ-mental
sustainability and to some degree,
the survival of the human race as
32 |
we know it today. They are all little
questions that almost every adult
has to make or is currently deciding
daily. As little as they are, the
sustainability of our environ-ment
and indeed our survival depends
on some of these questions.
At What Point Should
Organisations Begin to Address
Corporate Social Responsibility?
Although it is important to address
ESG before addressing CSR,
regardless, every organisation
should have a CSR Plan, a “give
back” strategy, as part of the
core organisational growth plan.
A bespoke CSR plan is useful for
every organi-sation. There is no
prescriptive entry point timeline for
CSR. However, it is recommended
that CSR plan and practice should
be market aligned to ensure that
it is not just a “zero-sum” handout
system, but a complementary
toolkit to reinforce business goals
possibly as part of the marketing
mix. So, it is recommended that
CSR be timed to value-driven
outcomes.
Since ESG Has Become An
Integral Part Of The World And
Even The Environment, What
Are Some Of Those Values It
Creates In The Corporate World,
Especially?
Passion. I am passionate about a
sustainable ecosystem. As the son
of a trained farmer, I learnt from a
very young age that if we do not
take care of the planet, we naturally
incapacitate the planet to take care
of us. Poor soils cannot produce
optimal yields. I learnt from home
that if we destroy the ecosystem, we
technically disenfranchise ourselves
from benefiting from the natural
ecosystem, which to a large extent,
our world depends on. At every
point in time, I want to do more. I
want to be more and want to aspire
more for a more sustainable world.
As A Global Social Performance
Lead, Could You Share
A Significant Lesson Or
Challenge Stunting The Overall
Performance In The Workplace
And The Possible Way Out?
ESG is the heartbeat of the
wider sustainability practice.
Organisations need to face their
fears and conquer them. Every
organisation needs to understand
their ESG exposures and proactively
plan on managing them promptly.
This process is pertinent in the
planning and implementation of
ESG. Every organisation is
expected to retain the service of
qualified ESG professionals. Many
organisations would claim not
to see value in ESG practice, or
engage in green-washing. These
are symptoms of unqualified
professionals. ESG is not a cost to
the business. It is a value add to
strength-en the business resilience
and drive optimal benefit for all
immediate and wider stakeholders.
APRIL — JUNE 2023
 Preferred
Executive Coach for
Book A Session with C-level Executives &
Senior Leaders

Dr. Abiola Salami to

with a robust
appetite for growth.

UPSCALE YOUR
PERFORMANCE
Since 2012, Dr. Abiola Salami has been providing
Topclass Professionals, Entrepreneurs & NationBuilders
with strategies for boosting their Performance.

Dr. Abiola Salami

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APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 33

 THE MARKETING PERSPECTIVE | THE PEAK PERFORMER

AMEYAW
DEBRAH:
BLOGGING FROM
GHANA TO THE WORLD.
IN A WORLD FULL OF GAME PLAYERS, AWARD-WINNING
GHANAIAN CELEBRITY BLOGGER, AMEYAW DEBRAH, HAS
DISTINGUISHED HIMSELF AS A GAME CHANGER. HE EARNED
THIS ACCOLADE FOR DELIVERING INSIGHTFUL AND DELICIOUS
INFORMATION ON ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE,
PREDOMINANTLY ON EVENTS IN GHANA, AFRICA AND THE WORLD.
THROUGH HIS BLOG, AMEYAWDEBRAH.COM, THE ENTHUSIASTIC
INFLUENCER CONTINUES TO DRIVE IMPACTING ENGAGEMENTS, SET
TRENDS, AND SPARK THE RIGHT CONVERSATIONS. TPP WRITES:
You can read similar articles on https://thepeakperformer.africa/category/comms-marketing-sales/

I
t started with reminisces about the good old
days when men were boys and searching
for their bearings in life. Then the
conversations deliberately took a natural
twist into how he’s dishing the right content
one day at a time. Truly, when it comes to
individuals who have displayed immeasurable consistency
in giving the new media a facelift, it is Debrah. Over the
years, he has continued to take Ghana and the world where
they should go. “For almost two decades, I’ve been writing,
publishing, and creating content,” says Debrah delightfully.
“The earliest stage I won an award as the Best Publishing
Student was when I was at Kwame Nkrumah University
of Science and Technology. That award was sponsored by
Ovation Magazine.”
The lifestyle blogger also reflected about his days as a rookie.
“I served as a corper with the National Youth Service Corp
(NYSC). I did my service with Ovation Magazine. That was
my introduction to the entertainment and lifestyle space.
When I left Ovation, I joined another project from the
Netherlands called Voices of Africa.
They gave mobile phones to journalists across Africa
to create content within the phone, shoot videos, edit
everything on the phone and upload to the server where
they would carry it through.”
He soon got inundated by a handful of bloggers from all over
the world when he was invited to speak at a forum in South
Africa about digital technology and what they were doing
with their project. “I listened to their stories and what they
were doing. When I got back to Ghana I said, ‘I’m already
doing something like this. Let me start properly and do it
fully’.” Debrah rolled up his sleeves and got his blog off the
ground in 2010.
“I started with my blog, taking it seriously and plugging
it into social media. Over the period that saw exponential

34 | APRIL — JUNE 2023


growth across platforms, my social
media became a big enough audience
to turn into what has now become
influencing as well,” he enthused
gleefully. “Although I didn’t start as
somebody who wanted to become
an influencer based on the audience
that I developed, the growth over the
period somewhat became some form
of influencing individuals, groups and
brands.”
As the world is experiencing radical
and disruptive changes at an admirable
speed, Debrah daily learns the ropes
of blogging just to stay afloat with
industry trends. “I think it’s important
to be abreast of all these trends because
things are changing rapidly. Even last
week, I spent five days doing audience
research with DW Academy. It’s
important to learn the new trends, how
consumer behaviour is forming around
the platform and other things so that
as a provider of content and somebody
that communicates with these people,
you understand the various sorts of
demographics and tiers of those you’re
communicating to,” he recommended.
Debrah, however, highlighted how the
writing style on Instagram and Twitter
are distinct. “I try to understand my
audience and find myself in that space
so that I get to consume myself and
what I’m giving them in the midst of
what is cool for them.” While he is at it,
he believes that the chief skill that has
stood him out is his ability to listen and
observe. “I realised that sometimes just
being able to observe will give you an
APRIL — JUNE 2023
angle that somebody else might miss
out on in terms of communicating. So
for me, having a good listening ear,
and being observant and analytical are
some things that have helped me so
far.”
Indeed, Debrah concedes that no
profession is a bed of roses. Even an
influencer experiences some hiccups
here and there. “My toughest work
experience should be the last major
project I took out which was to lead
a team to manage content on Scooper
News. I became their Editor-in-Chief
in Ghana for a year,” he recounted. “It
was difficult because it was the time
when the Covenant came in. We were
supposed to create a lot of content
daily and we were not seeing it the way
we wanted it to go.
According to the freelance journalist,
it is one thing to have a team, it is
another to effectively lead them,
especially in harnessing people power.
He expressed, “My style has been that
easy going. I let people find themselves
and try what they want to do. Although
generally, I have created that on certain
days I want this out and that. I pretty
much don’t direct them anymore on
how to do it. I just let them freely
operate. Sometimes there’s a little lag
here and there but by and large, they
understand that that’s my style and
most of them don’t want to abuse it.”
Although Debrah is the architect of the
ideas, he tunes in to his team because
Although I didn’t
start as somebody
who wanted
to become an
influencer based
on the audience
that I developed,
the growth over the
period somewhat
became some form
of influencing
individuals, groups
and brands.
“I’m getting quite old and they are still
very young,” he chipped in. “They do
understand a certain segment of the
online audience and it is important to
tap into those things so that altogether
we can create a platform and do what
is appreciated by all the people that we
want to reach out to.”
As a big player in blogging and
influencing, the Kwame Nkrumah
alumna considers the calendar, social
media and brief notes as his daily
compass. “Sometimes, some-thing
as basic as a calendar allows me to
organise my meetings,” he admitted.
“Being able to answer emails is one
thing really because sometimes it
gets so overloaded that I don’t get the
time to reply to some messages. You
may miss some opportunities that are
coming.”
Throughout the day, he pointed out,
I create a certain way that I’m able to
reply to almost every email. Accord-ing
to the graduate in Publishing, he uses
social media sometimes also to get a
pulse of what is going on. “Beyond my
schedule, especially since we create
content and some of this content is
real-time, it’s important for me also
to have that disruption and know that
this is happening let me address it, and
let me see how I can be part of that
conversation.”
Ultimately, Debrah is intoxicated with
excitement about how the internet
space and social media have allowed
people in Africa to become clear and
take part in conver-sations that are
being heard everywhere in the world.
He gives his final words, “Now and
then, I post some-thing that connects
to the continents, and people abroad.
It wouldn’t have been possible. I just
hope that a lot of our youth, especially,
see this potential and grab the use fully
because sometimes the fan, the trolling
and all those fan styles wash away all
the importance this platform can give
to us. Whether people are telling each
other about the service, I think people
should use the opportunities in this
space to their benefit rather than focus
on fans and trolling.”
| 35
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36 | London | Lagos | Abuja | Kaduna | Der es Salam | Accra | Kathmandu | Manila | Lusaka | Freetown | Monrovia APRIL — JUNE 2023
London HQ: 125, Orchard Rise West DA 15 8TB, London, United Kingdom | 109 Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria
+44 208 850 9534, +44 798 496 9616, +234 8035540064
 TIMEOUT WITH THE ED | THE PEAK PERFORMER

Nike Bajomo’s
Strive for Excellence
at StanbicIBTC
Putting your best foot forward to excel is
synonymous with Nike Bajomo, the Executive
Director, Business Development, Stanbic
IBTC Pension Managers Ltd. With a career
spanning over three decades in the
financial and information technology
sectors, Bajomo has undeniably grown in
leaps and bounds.
As one who is effortlessly steering
the affairs of strategic and directional
leadership in areas like sales and
relationship management among others,
she is a reflection of a leader who
doesn’t only believe in herself, but also
in the strength of her team and the
competence of their skills. She
shares with TPP how giving the
right tools and resources and
going the extra mile to become
more innovative is part of her
drive for excellence.

Could You Take Us Down Memory Lane

On Your Most Remarkable Moments in
The Financial Services And Information
Technology Sectors?
It has been an interesting 30-year-plus
journey. I believe I have had many
remarkable moments. Looking back,
for most of the roles I took up, I

APRIL — JUNE 2023

TIMEOUT WITH THE ED
realise I did not always have the
full complement of skills required
for the roles. But once I got the
opportunity, I did my best to excel.
I started my career in the banking
sector in 1991. For the first
eight years, all I did was branch
operations. I was so proficient in
every unit of the branch I worked.
I rose quickly and became the Head
of Operations in a particular branch.
My competence in the role was
never in doubt.
One grim afternoon in 1999, an
38 |
AGM in the bank called to inform
me that I had been deployed to sales
and relationship management. It
was, probably, the worst news I had
ever heard. I whined and gave all
the reasons that I was incompetent
for the role. The AGM responded
that he had watched me keenly
in the operations role over a few
months and was fully persuaded
that my skills were underutilised.
He insisted that I will do better in
sales and relationship management.
23 years later, every role I have
engaged in all four organisations
| THE PEAK PERFORMER
Build relationships
that go beyond the
workplace and find
opportunities to
connect with as many
people as you can.
I have worked in since then was
related to sales, relationship
management, partnerships and
strategy. I remember that when
I joined an IT company in those
early years, I was Head of Sales
and Marketing for a product I did
not know about. The product was
novel in the country at the time,
and the scary part was the fact
that my predecessor was unable
to make a sale before she left the
company. Eight and a half months
later, I recorded sales of over 1,500
terminals.
There are 7 lessons I learnt from
both episodes are: (i) we have
more capacity than we can ever
imagine; (ii) the comfort zone is
the worst place to be; (iii) take on
the challenge, one day at a time;
(iv) seek to understand what is
required to succeed in the role and
pursue excellence in every area; (v)
take feedback; (vi)never give up;
(vii) integrity is the most important
currency.
What Are Daily Habits for
Positively Connecting With Your
Team?
First, I have to say I am still a work
in progress and learning to improve/
upskill on these habits. Once upon a
time, I believed that when anyone
comes to work, they should focus
on their deliverables and get the
job done. That means “Drop your
problems at the door before you
come into the office. You can pick
them up again on your way out”. For
those of us who started work back
APRIL — JUNE 2023
TIMEOUT WITH THE ED
in the 90s, I am sure this position
is not strange. We were treated
that way and did not know any
better when we became managers
of people and teams. How wrong!
Down the road, I found out that we
need people’s hearts and minds to
execute tasks that can deliver the
kind of experience we desire for
our clients. You cannot give what
you do not have.
Some of the habits I engage in
is building relationships that go
beyond the workplace and finding
opportunities to connect with as
many as I can as individuals and not
just colleagues. Share resources,
knowledge, and information. I do
my best to be real and approachable,
sharing my journey and experiences
in both my personal and work life to
encourage others.
Involve them in decision-making by
listening to their views and arriving
at a consensus together. I encourage
a problem-solving mindset so that
we do not allow obstacles to set
us back permanently. Instead, we
focus on solutions or improvements
and come up with new ways to
attack the problem so that negative
impacts on productivity are
minimal.
What Are Some Corporate
Values You Embrace to Drive
the Culture of Your Organisation
And How Have They Worked for
You?
There are a number of them. (i)
Respect each other. It is important
to treat people with dignity and
professionalism. (ii) Integrity. It is
important to build trust through
responsible actions and honest
relationships. (iii) Create a sense
of purpose that will motivate
the team to strive for more.
(iv) Transparency. Encourage
open communication and solicit
feedback. (v) Collaboration. Engage
everyone in problem-solving. (vi)
Show gratitude and celebrate wins.
APRIL — JUNE 2023
| THE PEAK PERFORMER
Recognise even small achievements
and praise the team members in
meetings or via emails.
These corporate values work all the
time. People like and need to feel
valued, respected, and appreciated.
They like to know that their
opinions matter. More importantly,
I do my utmost best to live the
values, thereby encouraging others
to do the same.
How Do You Avoid
Micromanaging In Today’s
World of Work?
Trust your people. Trust is critical
when it comes to managing people
and getting work done. I believe
I have invested in that quite a bit
over the years and I’m grateful for
the crop of people I work with.
Coaching, mentoring, as well as
giving and taking feedback have
been instrumental in building my
team to become committed and Communication. Communicate to
driven to achieve results. ensure that expectations are very
well understood and thereafter
give them the space to do the work.
Depending on the task, we may have
agreed on checkpoints to confirm
Emphasis on they are on track and I am do my
purpose. There is best to make myself available to
further provide clarity if required.
more to our daily
tasks than meeting As the Executive Director,
Business Development, How
the numbers and Have You Inspired Growth
declaring profits. Across the Business?
Emphasis on purpose. There
Our work creates a is more to our daily tasks than
far-reaching impact meeting the numbers and declaring
profits. Our work creates a far-
that extends into reaching impact that extends into
the community the community while we continue
to develop ourselves and elevate
while we continue our value in the process.
to develop ourselves Encourage innovation and not just
and elevate our ideation – given the right tools
and resources. The top employees
value in the process. challenge themselves to be more
innovative and perform better.
Trust in the capability of the team
to deliver.
| 39
 THE COO’S CORNER | THE PEAK PERFORMER

JOHN
OKONKWO:
Every COO’s
Guide to
Drive Peak
Performance
As times continue to challenge the status quo of skills, knowledge and process so do
great leaders. They carefully track their progress and encourage individuals and teams
to scale up their games and discard faded knowledge through training and retraining.
That is the attribute of Mr John Okonkwo. As a COO winning the race, he shared with
TPP, five key nuggets every COO must pay attention to drive peak performance and
augment free transition for your team.

You can read similar articles on https://thepeakperformer.africa/category/process-innovation-technology/

Could You Take Us Down Memory Lane On The
Most Remarkable Moments In Your Career?
The most remarkable moment of my career was when
I became a Manager at KPMG. To underscore
how remarkable that moment was, you had to
understand how competitive KPMG was in my days.
There were three critical promotions in KPMG in those
days – crossing to a senior, becoming a manager, and
being elevated to partnership (for those who had the
patience to stay back). Now, I moved from Audit to
Advisory just a year before the time I would be assessed
for promotion to manager. It was a tough call. And six
months down the line, my performance manager told
me that the odds were stacked against me based on
the outcome of the half-year performance evaluation.
But I soldiered on and eventually made it at the fullness
of time. To this day, my performance manager still
considers it a miracle. A lot of effort went into it and I
was filled with joy that my efforts were rewarded at the
end of the day.
Another phenomenal moment in my career was when
I resigned from one of my previous jobs and the boss
asked me not to go. I felt good knowing that my
contribution was appreciated.

40 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

THE COO’S CORNER
SPOTLIGHT
John Okonkwo is the Chief Operating
Officer of VFD Group and former Chief
Financial Officer of Heirs Holdings Ltd
where he also served as the Head of
Business Assurance & Compliance among
positions he has effortlessly steered.
If you are fair, firm,
equitable and just in
dealing with all members of
the team, you will succeed
in building trust, which
would in turn bring about
camaraderie and then help
to foster teamwork and
togetherness.
APRIL — JUNE 2023
| THE PEAK PERFORMER
What Are The Top Five Things Every COO Must Pay
Attention To Drive Peak Performance?
Every COO must pay attention to policies, standard
operating procedures, risk management and compliance,
human resources management and strategic planning.
What Are The 5 Key Concerns Every COO Is Likely To
Have?
Operational efficiency, customer retention, risk issues,
human capital issues and keeping up with the competition
are the five key concerns every COO is likely to have.
What Are Some Of Those Personal Values You Have
Implemented Over The Years In Your Career And How
Do They Impact Your Work?
Fear God, for that is the beginning of wisdom. Obey the
law (follow the policies and procedures) for you are as
powerful as you are right.
Treat all people well – both the high and the low, seniors
and subordinates – for jilted lovers often hate more than
they loved. Avoid those who tell you how powerful you are,
for they will only succeed in making you weak. I learned
these principles from my former Vice-Chancellor. And I try
to practicalise them in my personal and professional lives.
These values keep me out of trouble. When you combine
them with execution, resilience, enterprise and emotional
intelligence, you are truly on your way to success.
What Is Your Preferred Leadership Style And Why?
Leadership is situational. As such, I do not have a preferred
leadership style. I dip into the leadership box and draw out
the right style for every specific situation.
How Do You Drive Synergy In Your Team?
I believe that personal examples work best in engendering
synergy in my teams. If you are fair, firm, equitable and
just in dealing with all members of the team, you will
succeed in building trust, which would in turn bring
about camaraderie and then help to foster teamwork and
togetherness.
I usually make some principles clear to all the people
who work with me from day one – follow the policies and
procedures, for you are as powerful as you are right (seems
this is intentional).
How Would You Define Success?
Success is when the organisation I work for achieves the
result it sets for itself. At a personal level, success is when
the people who work under me move to higher heights
and point at me as one of the key influences in their career
growth.
As An Executive With Quite A Demanding Schedule,
How Do You Relax And Manage Stress?
Relaxation comes in the form of watching football and
tennis or reading non-fiction books.
| 41
 +23490901234567

42 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

 PERSONAL GROWTH | THE PEAK PERFORMER

Kamil Olufowobi: The

Connectologist To Know
Every individual has a dream.
For some, it is to set new records
while for others it is to propel their
academic portfolios. However, there
has been a new wave of people
craving to find themselves and
discover their true meaning in life
from across the world. That is the
forte of Kamil Olufowobi, the CEO
and Founder of the Most Influential
People of African Descent (MIPAD).
Through his many initiatives, helping
Africans trace their lost roots has
become an antidote to hubris. TPP
caught up with Mr. Connectologist to
learn more about his passion.

You can read similar articles on https://thepeakperformer.africa/category/personal-growth-transformation/

What Does it Mean When You Introduce Yourself in Africa. It was designed to connect Africans from all
as A Connectologist? over the world back to their motherland.
I always introduce myself as Kamil, a connectologist. That
So, connecting people to purpose is, perhaps, one of
means I see the world through the lenses of connection.
my favourite parts of what we do at the Most Influential
Everyone came into this world based on a connection.
100 Company. Just to share with you what the model is.
The first human connection is between the mother and
The model is we have a recognition platform to show-
a child, the umbilical cord. There are connections all
case the 1 per cent and to inspire the 99 per cent. So,
around us. When you begin to see it, you begin to op-
MIPAD is a recognition platform. Our vision is to recog-
erate, unlock new possibilities, and attain more success.
nise those who are operating at the highest level of their
I built a global company creating connections, not just possibilities.
connecting people to people but connecting people to
When you talk about connecting people to purpose, it
purpose, and people to identity. There were many Afri-
is supporting you to discover why you’re here on this
cans who wanted to reconnect to the African continent –
planet. You see when you begin to operate on your own
their roots. I have that as a programme called My Roots

APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 43

PERSONAL GROWTH
highest possibilities, you begin to SPOTLIGHT
move on this planet with a better
idea of what is your gift, your pur-
pose, and your calling. The number
one principle of
What Are the Key Principles
of Connectology Concept to
connectology is
Become the Best Version of first to build a
Oneself? connection with
In my book – My Journey of Be- yourself. It begins
coming a Connectologist: A Prac-
with you. Who are
tical Guide to Connecting Your
Way to Success – there are 12 core
you? Why are you
principles of connectology. Con- on this planet?
nectology, by itself, is the building
of relationships, first with yourself
and with others - to share ideas, information, opportuni-
ties, and resources; in order to create win-win outcomes.
In English, people call that networking for success but
at the Most Influential 100 Company, we call it connec-
tology.
The number one principle of connectology is first to
build a connection with yourself. It begins with you. Who
are you? Why are you on this planet? Many people want
to network with people. When we say you need to con-
nect with people, there’s a difference. Now, what is the
difference? You cannot network with yourself; you need
two or more people for networking. However, with con-
nectology, you begin with you. You connect with your-
self. Once you are clear about why you are here on this
planet, it becomes easier for you to connect with others.
You begin to create an authentic relationship with oth-
ers. That’s why a lot of people struggle with networking.
Connectology is the next level of networking. You get
clarity on who you are and why you are here on this plan-
et, what your gift, your purpose, and your calling is. You
can go to www.mipad.org/connectology. You can learn
44 |
| THE PEAK PERFORMER
more about the principles in my up-
coming book.
There’s An Interest in Black Excel-
lence with Black People. Why the
Focus on Blacks?
Let’s begin first by acknowledging that
MIPAD is the world’s number one Black
Excellence Network. Before we were
anything else, we were all Africans
– every human being on this planet.
Therefore, we are all Africans. When I
begin my conversations about black
excellence or excellence exhibited by
people of African descent, I’m talking
about humanity. I just happen to love
Black people because they are the underdogs. But that
doesn’t mean I don’t love everybody else.
When you look at it in global affairs, we, as a continent,
are at the base of the conversation. In most societies,
people who look like you and I are usually at the bot-
tom of the social economic pyramid. Let’s just say I’m
a fan of the underdog. If there’s any role model for the
world to follow, it is nobody else but us. So, it matters.
Also, it matters because Africa is one of the wealthiest
continents on this planet. Yet it has some of the poor-
est people. Africans are not poor because Africa is poor.
It’s poor because it has been pillaged and exploited by
others.
Africa is our collective responsibility – the world’s collec-
tive responsibility. It’s our responsibility to ensure that
the continent with so much abundance shouldn’t be at
that level of scarcity or poverty. Scientists will tell you
that before we were anything else, we were all Africans.
Hence, we are all responsible for the state of Africa to-
day which is not in a good place. It is all of us who are
responsible to move Africa from potential to possibility.
APRIL — JUNE 2023
APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 45
 SPECIAL FEATURE | THE PEAK PERFORMER

NIYI ADESANYA
LEADERSHIP
BOOTCAMP @ 5
For Niyi Adesanya Leadership
Bootcamp (NALB) it is five years down
and forever to go in its noble quest to
impact individuals and organisations
in Nigeria and Africa with hands-on
leadership skills for innovative
and igniting solutions.
Here, TPP reports.

W
ITH THE KNOWLEDGE THAT NALB is a two-day premium “At the first
refuelling and rejuvenating programme for resilient leaders, the
Bootcamp in 2018, we
Founder and Business Re-engineering and Leadership expert,
Niyi Adesanya shares the benchmark and a pivotal feat of reaching had 54 participants.
250 people in 2022. In 2019, we had 184.
Making a lasting outcome is one legacy every great leader yearns for. Whether We pulled about 101
it is a leadership role in the family, society or at the workplace, John Maxwell’s despite the Covid-19
quote, “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way” lockdown in 2020. In
perfectly underscores the attributes of leaders. And organisations like the NALB 2021, we had over 200
have continued to stay ahead of the pack since it was designed in 2017 for this
course. Part of its noble quest is to lead a paradigm shift in leadership in Nigeria,
participants...
Africa and the world, helping people find their inner leadership GPS. Consistency is the
Currently, the NALB is upgrading and overhauling the skills of individuals and foremost rule of this
organisations who aspire to be leaders. It is also equipping them with essential game.”
recipes for the task before and ahead. And the Bootcamp is paving the way for
their well-rounded success in leading, influencing and guiding others. “NALB
was established on the deficit in leadership development that I have observed
over my years of practice. With an iota of doubt, I was convinced it was time to Niyi Adesanya

46 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

| THE PEAK PERFORMER
advocate and lead a change,” says Adesanya.
“Thus, the Niyi Adesanya Leadership Bootcamp was born
as an intervention programme to mitigate this deficit.
Leadership starts from every community base, and this
base must be filled with the right leadership mentality,” he
chipped in. “This is crucial because the right mentality is
needed to develop leaders that will also in turn populate
their community with more leaders that are the right fit.”
According to the leadership expert, the Bootcamp came to
light following his kin interest to rewrite the narrative and
people’s perception of the knowledge industry in Nigeria
and the continent of Africa at large. “We do not see the
same level of interest, patronage, and respect accorded
to some other industries like entertainment accorded
to the knowledge industry.” This, he described as an
anomaly, saying it reflects the people’s disposition towards
knowledge acquisition. “This is why beyond impacting and
educating we seek to provide inspiration year after year
to our participants at the Bootcamp and everyone who
catches a glimpse of it.”
While the NALB is mapped out for anyone poised for
greatness, it cuts across individuals, managers, supervisors,
team leads, C-suite executives, directors, high-net-worth
individuals, investors, decision-makers, business owners,
supervisors, team leads, and decision-makers with
essential skills for leading both self and others. It does this
by cultivating awareness and application of key personal
assets towards effective leadership skills, in and out of the
workplace.
Although the NALB has continued to hone the skills
and chart a course for these individuals who strive to
become leaders, the founder is certain that consistency
and constant improvement are keys to sustainability. He
reminisced about an experience. “At the first Bootcamp
in 2018, we had 54 participants. In 2019, we had 184. We
pulled about 101 despite the Covid-19 lockdown in 2020.
In 2021, we had over 200 participants. And this year we are
APRIL — JUNE 2023
looking at about 250 people. Consistency is the foremost
rule of this game.”
Undeniably, Africa has loads of tapped and untapped
potential. Hence, the Leadership Quadrant author holds
the paradigm that whatever you don’t teach or train
people, you don’t demand them. “Thus, this leaves us with
the question of how many leadership development schools
we have. Do we still teach subjects like Civic Education,
and History in our primary and secondary schools?”
Adesanya, however, hinted that the moral fabric of the
community is of utmost significance. Adding to it that
Nigeria used to have a value-driven culture but now she
has a “money-driven culture”. This is as he frowned that
“politicians start playing their parts when they pay attention
to education, especially the teachers’ development
programme like the NCE. The mentality of the teachers
that would train the students has to be corrected.
“We need to ensure that our teachers are adequately
equipped with the right mentality to train our primary
school students and prepare their minds for leadership.
Then we take it a step further by putting policies and
regulations in place in the media, creating a government
media outfit, and sending value out through that media.
With that, we can change the mindset of our society and
the upcoming generations”, he recommended.
Indeed, one selling point of the NALB is its programme
for traditional leaders. Sharing the reason, the founder
highlighted sustainability, continuity, and staying more
relevant. He, however, described the traditional rulers as
a set of people who understand sustainability in this part
of the world. He expressed: “They are our best shot, being
that they have a full grasp of succession planning. It was
also a strategic move on our part to make sure our people,
their interests, and their investments are protected and no
other person is fit to have such a strategic relationship
with except the kings in our community.”
Just like every structured organisation, the NALB has
its strategic objectives framed for the next five years.
Accordingly, Adesanya anticipated, “In the next five
years, NALB will be a leadership pilgrimage for people
to embark on annually. It will impact our tourism, and our
| 47
 | THE PEAK PERFORMER

economy positively. I look forward to a time when we to building centenary organisations with a global brand
will have about 20,000 people coming from all over the by putting into perspective its peculiar dynamics and
world into Nigeria because NALB is impacting lives, evolving business environment.
businesses, and even homes. It should be the talk of To date, Adesanya has authored six dynamic books on
the nation at 10.0.” public speaking, leadership, and peak performance.
As it continues to sharpen the skills of individuals across They are Audience Analysis, Individual Competitive-
Africa, the NALB aims to have its organisation as the ness, KYBIB Audio and Video Pack, NALB 1.0 Audio
reference and the focal point for every successful leader and Video Pack, Special Combo Pack, and The Speaker.
seamlessly running a business in Nigeria and Africa.
Meanwhile, Adesanya has about three decades of
cognate experience in Leadership and Management
Consulting to his credit. He helps CEOs and other
C-suite executives reinvent themselves as they navigate
their business re-engineering process. He is also the
CEO of FifthGear Plus, a consulting, recruiting, and
publishing firm with clients including at least one of the
top three organisations in major sectors of the economy.
He is also using reaching more individuals through
the Niyi Adesanya Business Think Tank, a semi-formal
league of Business leaders and entrepreneurs dedicated

WISDOM EZEKIEL’S DR SUNDAY PETER OKETOLA’S EMMANUEL

BOOTCAMP OLORUNSHEYI’S FOUR FIVE YEARS EPISODE ABIKOYE’S
EXPERIENCE YEARS TAKEAWAY In his narration, the
FOUR YEARS
For the Co-founder The Co-founder of MD/CEO of Blue-Chip ENCOUNTER
of Pertinence Group, Pertinence Group Technologies, Peter “The volume and
Wisdom Ezekiel, his Bluechips Technology Oketola tells TPP that size of projects we
major takeaway from Limited, Dr Sunday the NALB has proven to work on always
the NALB over the Olorunsheyi has been a be the platform to rectify require huge human
years is the access recipient of the NABLB for leadership deficiencies resources across
to quality networks four years. “The insights and improve one’s the value chain
of commercially gleaned from the Niyi leadership skills vis- of delivering a
astute businessmen Adesanya Leadership a-vis present-day satisfactory service
and veterans across Bootcamp in four years business challenges. to customers,” these
different industries and of being a part of it have “The programme were the words of
sectors of the economy helped me and my business always leaves me the Chief Marketing
that the platform partner to make some with an intriguing Officer, Tribitat Real
provides. “It’s a great strategic decisions that have experience that has Estate, Emmanuel
place to connect and changed the dynamics of greatly contributed to Abikoye. “Thus,
engage with people our business and provided my growth each time I regular leadership
who have done what us with the fundamental have been a part of it in training is finely
you want to do and requisites to scale our the last five years,” says knitted into our
what you are doing,” business to becoming a Oketola. business model.”
he highlighted. group of companies.

48 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 49
 THE COACHING CAFE | THE PEAK PERFORMER

How Your
Thoughts Can
Heal Your Body
BY D R . L A N R E O L U S H O L A

Have you ever had an insight or gained

knowledge that both excites and scares you at
the same time? We’ve all been superstitious at
some point, or around those who are, who’ve
said, “Watch out what you ask for, you just may
get it.” As it turns out there’s a whole lot
more truth in this statement than we
ever knew.

F
OR 23 YEARS NOW, the Princeton
Engineering Anomalies Research (PEAR)
Program at Princeton University has been
quietly compiling evidence that the human
mind influences anything it focuses on. This has
been proven again and again in well over 50 million
documented experiments! And this influence is even
more pronounced when “bonded male/female teams
work together”, focusing on a common theme.
Many of these experiments involved ordinary
electronic machines. If the power of focusing the
human mind can influence something as simple
as a computer, imagine all the other implications...
Physical, mental and emotional health, Peace,
Success, Happiness
Looking at our health as highlighted above as a
key area that our thoughts affect, after all they say,
“Health is Wealth”. Scientists have now proven that

50 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

THE COACHING CAFE | THE PEAK PERFORMER

Health is predicated upon audience is invited onstage, hypnotized, and

asked to pick up a glass of water, which the
the nervous system’s volunteer is told weighs one thousand

ability to accurately pounds. With that misinformation,

the volunteer struggles unsuccessfully
perceive environmental with straining muscles, bulging veins,

information and selectively and perspiration.

How can that be? Obviously the glass
engage appropriate, life- doesn’t weigh one thousand pounds,
sustaining behaviours. even though the mind of the subject
firmly believes that it does.

an important influence of signals on the dis-ease process To manifest the perceived reality of a thou-
is “Thought”- the action of the mind. sand-pound glass of water, something
that cannot be lifted, the hypnotized
According to Dr Bruce Lipton PhD “95% of dis-ease is
subject’s mind fires a signal
caused by stress and 100% of stress is caused by wrong
to the muscles used to lift
beliefs.” Mind-related illnesses do not require that there
the glass at the same
be anything physically wrong with the body at the outset
time it fires contra-
of the dis-ease.
dictory signals to
Health is predicated upon the nervous system’s ability the muscles used
to accurately perceive environmental information to set the glass
and selectively engage appropriate, life-sustaining down! This re-
behaviours. This simply means that, if a mind sults in an iso-
misinterprets environmental signals and generates an metric exercise
inappropriate response, survival is threatened because wherein two
the body’s behaviours become out of synch with the groups of muscles
environment. work to oppose
We may not think that a thought could be enough to each other, which re-
undermine an entire system, but, in fact, misperceptions sults in no net movement-but a lot of strain and sweat.
can be lethal. Consider the situation of a person with Our cells, tissues, and organs do not question information
anorexia. While relatives and friends clearly perceive sent by the nervous system. Rather, they respond with
that this skin-and-bones individual is near death, equal fervor to accurate life-affirming perceptions and
the anorexic looks in a mirror and sees a fat person. to self-destructive misperceptions. Consequently, the
Using this distorted view that resembles an image in a nature of our perceptions greatly influences the fate of
funhouse mirror, the anorexic’s brain attempts to control our lives.
a misperceived runaway weight gain, by inhibiting the
While most of us are aware of the healing influences
system’s metabolic functions.
of the placebo effect, few are aware of its evil twin,
The brain, like any governing entity, seeks harmony and the nocebo effect. Just as surely as positive thoughts
in my book The Catalyst Quote Book, you are presented can heal, negative ones-including the belief we are
with powerful quotes that will help you create harmony susceptible to an illness or have been exposed to a toxic
in your thought process. Neural harmony is expressed condition-can actually manifest the undesired realities
as a measure of congruency between the mind’s of those thoughts.
perceptions and the life we experience.
Shalom
An interesting insight into how the mind creates harmony
I am The Catalyst
between its perceptions and the real world is frequently
I Transform Minds by Transforming Minds.
illustrated in stage hypnosis shows. A volunteer from the

APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 51

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| THE PEAK PERFORMER
MIND YOUR BUSINESS
Six Critical
Behaviours
Restricting Peak
Performance On
Your Team
This article was first published in by Dr. Abiola Salami, a World-
class Performance Strategist providing valuable insights and executive
coaching for high performing professionals in business & governance.
M
ANY TIMES, OWING TO a poor level of
self-awareness, you don’t think you could
be the clog in the wheel of your team’s
high performance. It takes an honest self-
assessment to reveal that the person you see in the
mirror could be the biggest challenge on your team. It is
sometimes described as unconscious incompetence—a
situation where you not only don’t know the right thing
to do, but you’re also unaware that you don’t know
that you are falling short in the first place. You need to
first identify the counter-productive actions before you
figure out a way to correct them.
It can be difficult to diagnose when you are the boss or in
top management. The corporate governance structure
leverages emotional intelligence; however, there will
be fewer voices to give you the appropriate feedback.
Some of these toxic traits come under the guise of
office politics, but a more cursory examination shows
that such behavior can undermine the overarching
goals of an organization. Someone once said that “the
road to hell is paved with good intentions”—so when
good intentions aren’t enough, such desires must be
executed in a manner that increases the fortunes and
well-being of all the stakeholders.
If you want to consistently deliver peak performance,
pay attention to these six behaviors.
APRIL — JUNE 2023
1. Diversion
Leaders restrict high performance when they use their
position to manipulate rather than show accountability.
If by commission or omission, you are involved in
unacceptable behavior and there is an inquiry into the
matter—where you are culpable, promptly own up to
your faults. By feigning ignorance or deflecting from the
core issue, you sow the seeds of impunity in your team.
Once accountability is tossed out of the window,
it makes a mockery of an organization’s incentive
structure—your team now believes that the reward for
good behavior is not guaranteed and bad behavior has
no consequences. That is a recipe for disaster.
2. Exclusion
Inclusion is one of the biggest themes in today’s
world and the workplace can’t be left out. When you
demonize a team member owing to perceived personal
differences or unconscious bias, you are upsetting the
apple cart in your organization. Ostracizing any person(s)
on your team is counter-productive because you rob
the organization of the ingenuity such person(s) brings
to the table. When you put your biases and prejudices
over the success of the organization, it always comes
with consequences.
You also must not discriminate against anyone on
| 53
 MIND YOUR BUSINESS | THE PEAK PERFORMER

company. He may have a sense of job insecurity or feel

Someone once said that “the as though his professional opinion is not considered and
road to hell is paved with good he doesn’t want to be around when things fall apart.

intentions”—so when good 5. Rationalization

As a team leader, you must never have one set of
intentions aren’t enough, such rules for others and another for yourself; you must be
desires must be executed in willing to hold yourself to the same standards that have
been set for everyone. By justifying a behavior, you
a manner that increases the are communicating to the team that you are a sacred
fortunes and well-being of all cow who can operate above consequences. A great
leader commits to the laid-down rules and enforces
the stakeholders them regardless of whose ox is gored; the selective
dispensation of punitive measures is a sign of nepotism
the basis of their race, religion, age, gender, etc. For in the workplace.
example, if you constantly exclude your CFO from
It is uninspiring to the rest of the team to work with
crucial conversations and decision-making because you
someone who walks free or gets a slap on the wrist for
think he or she misaligns with your vision, your financial
the same thing they got disciplined over.
recklessness will eventually ruin the organization.
6. Victimization
3. Intimidation
Scapegoating a team member is one chronic
Coercion and creativity don’t mix. You cannot bully
behavior of leaders that restricts high
your team members and expect them to deliver peak
performance in their teams. There is absolutely
performance when they are perpetually in the grip of
nothing out of place about making sure
fear. Fear-mongering is a poor strategy; it places a mental
people are held accountable, but nobody
barricade on your team. It lowers confidence levels and
should be victimized. Teamwork means that
prevents your team from stretching their abilities. Such
everyone has input in the quest to achieve
team members begin operating in survival mode—they
desirable outcomes; there would be times
put more effort into trying to keep their jobs than into
when they get it right and other times they
developing more innovative solutions.
will miss the mark. What you
A typical example is when you constantly threaten to fire must not do is kill the drive
a team member—whether or not such person is culpable, of the team by singling out
you cast a dark cloud over your team. Wielding the big one or a few persons for
stick does have its perks but when deployed excessively, blame and guilt.
it cripples creativity. A reign of terror breaks the spirits of
Great leaders criticize
your team. It introduces uncertainty with team members
privately and praise
seeking alternatives to fall back on in the event things
publicly—not the
go south.
other way around.
When you are con-
4. Ignoring
stantly stoking
Every team member matters. As a leader, you should
team members
attend to everyone within your sphere of influence as
about their per-
equitably as you can. People love to feel important, they
ceived failures,
love to have a sense of belonging and sometimes it is a far
it destroys their
higher consideration than even the official remuneration.
confidence.
One of the consequences of ignoring the input of your
team members is that there will be a mass exodus of the
best hands because they don’t feel valued.
For example, when you have a brilliant Chief Operating
Officer who is evidently a star performer but you
ignore his recommendations on the worrying pattern
of expenditure, he might expedite his exit from the

54 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

| THE PEAK PERFORMER

XPLORE AFRICA

Africa And
The Dawn Of
Independence
After years of gaining independence from the claws of
colonial powers either peacefully or through agitation,
Africa has been nicknamed the Mother Continent and
the second most populous continent in the world. As
Africans continue to spread their tentacles proudly in the
diaspora, the continent is finally rising to the occasion of
impact, influence and income amidst all odds.
This debut edition of Xplore Africa details freedom from
colonialism across the continent.

� Algeria gained independence from France on
5th July 1962.
� Angola gained independence from Portugal
on 11th November 1975.
� Benin gained independence from France on
1st August 1960.
� Botswana gained independence from Great
Britain on 30th September 1966.
� Burkina Faso gained independence from
France on 5th August 1960.
� Burundi gained independence from Belgium
on 1st July 1962.
� Cape Verde gained independence from
Portugal on 5th July 1975.
� Cameroon gained independence from France
on 1st January 1960 to join British Cameroon.
It after that, got independence from Great
Britain on October 1st 1961.
� Central African Republic (CAR) gained
independence from France on 13 August 1960.
� Chad gained independence from France on
11th August 1960.
� Egypt gained independence from Great
Britain on 28th February 1922.
� Equatorial Guinea gained independence from
Spain on 12th October 1968.
� Gabon gained independence from France on
17th August 1960.
� Gambia gained independence from Great
Britain on 18th February 1965.
� Ghana gained independence from Great
Britain on 6th March 1957.
� Guinea-Bissau gained independence from
Portugal on 24th September 1973/ 10th
September 1974.

APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 55

XPLORE AFRICA | THE PEAK PERFORMER

� Guinea gained independence from France

on 2nd October 1958.
� Kenya gained independence from Great
Britain on 12th December 1963.
� Lesotho gained independence from Great
Britain on 4th October 1966.
� Madagascar gained independence from
France on 26th June 1960.
� Malawi gained independence from Great
Britain on 6th July 1964.
� Mali gained independence from France on � Tunisia gained
4th April 1960. independence
� Mauritania gained independence from from France on
France on 28th November 1960. 20th March 1956.
� Mauritius gained independence from France � Uganda gained
on 12th March 1968. independence
� Morocco gained independence from France from Great Britain
on 27th April 1958. on 9th October
1962.
� Mozambique gained independence from
Portugal on 25th June 1975. � Zambia gained
independence from
� Namibia gained independence from South
Britain on 24th October
Africa on 21st March 1990.
1964.
� Niger gained independence from France on
� Zimbabwe got independence from Britain
3rd August 1960.
officially on 18th April 1980, although it
� Nigeria gained her independence from declared independence as Rhodesia in 1965.
Great Britain on Saturday, 1st October 1960.
� Rwanda gained independence from Belgium
on 1st July 1962
� Sao Tome and Principe gained independence
from Portugal on 12th July 1975.
Ethiopia is the only African nation
� Senegal gained independence from France
on 4th April 1960.
considered to have never been colonised.
� Seychelles gained independence on Tuesday, With Xplore Africa bringing you delicious
29th June 1976, from Great Britain. events from around the continent, we
� Sierra Leone gained independence from will continue to facilitate your tour
Britain Thursday, 27th April 1961. through her historical moments from
� Somalia gained independence from Great the comfort of your home. Every edition
Britain and Egypt on Friday, 1st July 1960.
promises to unravel new events of her
� South Africa gained independence on
rich cultural and diverse heritage to help
Tuesday, 31 May 1910 from Great Britain.
you come to terms with the fact that
� Sudan also gained independence from
Britain and Egypt on 1st January 1956.
Africa is more than a continent – she is
made for more!
� Togo gained independence from France on
27th April 1960.

56 | APRIL — JUNE 2023

 | THE PEAK PERFORMER

Tea
Break
Almost everyone looks forward to the tea break at that
casual office meeting, conference or workshop. Not
just because one really needs a cup of hot tea, beverage
or coffee or a plate of finger foods but because it is
a perfect getaway to stretch, network and strengthen
our productivity. That is why our working Tea Break
introduces you to our list of games to help you become
more lucid while you revamp your problem-solving skills.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Here’s your fist tea break crossword puzzle. Take your time to analyse
this problem.
Mark the words you discover. Those are the solutions.

APRIL — JUNE 2023 | 57

RIDDLES
Take a deep breath. Grab a bowl of healthy snacks 5. What is always coming but never arrives?
and a glass of water or fresh juice as you provide 6. At night they come without being fetched. By
the appropriate answers to these exciting riddles. day they are lost without being stolen.
Let’s roll. 7. What does no man want, yet no man wants
1. What belongs to the competent, the patient, to lose?
and the faithful? 8. A man and his boss have the same parents
2. Poor people have it. Rich people need it. It but are not siblings. How is this possible?
can make you or break you. 9. What belongs to you but other people use it
3. Why did the spider get a job in I.T.? more than you?
4. You can only have it once you have given it. 10. Why is it so easy for an elephant to get a job?

Puzzle
Connect the corresponding boxes without crossing lines.

Boost Your General Knowledge Skills

Solve these trivial general knowledge questions. Trace the question to the appropriate answer.

Largest River China

Largest body organ Pacific
Largest democracy Rome
Heartbeats Sahara
City in every continent Russia
Most populated country Mahatma Gandhi
Largest ocean Amazon
Largest desert 100,000 times daily
Father of India India
Largest country Skin

Hope you enjoyed our flavourful Tea Break. Now you see that solving riddles and puzzles isn’t rocket science after all.
Remember that every time you feel swamped with work, do come for your flavoured TPP Tea Break on our page. We
have got enough of your favourite games to go round as you massage your reasoning muscles. Let’s do more of this
in our next edition, where we shall furnish you with the answers for this edition.

58 | APRIL — JUNE 2023