Abeokuta, Ogun State – August 18, 2024
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on Nigerians to prioritize responsible and transformational leadership at all levels of government to achieve good governance and foster national development. Obasanjo expressed his concerns about the persistent lack of quality leadership in the country, which he believes is hindering progress.
Speaking at the 2024 Leadership Empowerment International Conference (LEIC) in Abeokuta, Obasanjo emphasized that leadership remains Nigeria’s greatest challenge. The event, organized by the South African-based Immanuel Theology Institute International in partnership with Nigeria’s Priesthood Leadership Development Initiative Inc (PLDI), also saw the conferment of honorary Doctor of Leadership (D.L) and Doctor of Theology (D.Th) awards on several distinguished Nigerians.
Obasanjo criticized the current crop of leaders, describing them as self-centered and lacking in knowledge and understanding. He asserted that if Nigeria could get its leadership right, other aspects of national life would naturally improve.
“There is no end to leadership and service to your community until you breathe your last,” Obasanjo said. “Leadership that is self-centered, devoid of knowledge and understanding, and does not prioritize service is the bane of Nigeria today. If we can get the leadership right, we will get all other things right.”
The former president also praised Prof. Olusesi Obateye, the International Coordinator of PLDI, and Prof. Van Den Berg Edward Alfred, President of the Immanuel Theology Institute International, for their efforts in recognizing and promoting leadership excellence among Nigerians.
Among those honored at the event were former Ogun State Commissioners Mr. Anthony Ojeshina and Hon. Dele Obadina, former Ogun State PDP Chairman Chief Joju Fadairo, and Prince Dimeji Kayode-Adedeji, Founder of Penpushing Media.
Obasanjo’s remarks reflect his ongoing concern for Nigeria’s development and his belief that effective leadership is essential to addressing the nation’s challenges.
