Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed grave concerns over Nigeria’s socio-economic and political challenges, attributing them to what he calls self-centered leadership. Speaking in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Saturday, at the Leadership Empowerment International Conference, Obasanjo, who was the Special Guest of Honour, emphasized that Nigeria’s stagnation in development is a direct result of a leadership deficit. He urged a shift from transactional to transformational leaders who prioritize good governance.
Obasanjo highlighted that effective leadership should transcend personal gain, asserting that true leadership is about service and commitment to community development. He remarked, “There is no end to leadership and service to your community until you breathe your last. Leadership should not be confined by age or personal ambition; it should focus on bettering the community, state, and country. The fundamental problem in Nigeria today is leadership—self-centered and lacking in both knowledge and genuine service.”
He praised the Leadership Empowerment International Conference (LEIC) for promoting good leadership and urged that such initiatives be expanded across all levels of society to foster national progress.
In a related event, former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke criticized the current Nigerian political landscape, describing it as plagued by incompetence and corruption. Speaking at a Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) event in Abuja, Duke condemned the use of religion for political manipulation and stressed that the political class’s selfishness is driving many young Nigerians to seek opportunities abroad.
Duke noted that politics could be a transformative force if handled correctly but lamented that it has been degraded by unqualified individuals. He argued, “When politics is done right, it elevates all sectors, including medicine and livelihood. Unfortunately, the current political class has reduced it to its lowest level.”
He called for a shift in perspective, urging that politics be viewed as a service rather than a livelihood. Duke emphasized that if politicians serve as role models and foster hope, they can restore faith among the youth in their country’s future.
Addressing the issue of inflation, Duke argued that many problems, including inflation driven by high energy costs, are solvable with proper management. He suggested that Nigeria’s vast energy resources, such as flared gas, should be harnessed domestically to mitigate inflation and ensure self-sufficiency.
Pastor Eva Azodoh, who organized the RCCG event, explained that the aim was to provide teenagers with role models who exemplify success through hard work and integrity, reinforcing the belief that honesty and perseverance can lead to achievement.
