By Joke Kujenya
DELIVERING A resounding call for a fresh wave of leadership, former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has expressed deep concerns over Nigeria’s escalating insecurities and widespread suffering.
He stressed the urgent need for a moral, transformational, and servant leadership approach to steer the nation out of its current quagmire while speaking during the Africa Methodist Council Heads of Conference Summit and Women’s Movement Leadership Summit held in Lagos.
In his impassioned address, Obasanjo highlighted the crucial role leadership plays in shaping the course of a nation, underscoring the imperative for leaders to fulfill their obligations and chart a course towards a brighter future for all Nigerians.
Pointing to Nigeria’s abundant resources, he lamented the squandered potential resulting from ineffective leadership.
Obasanjo’s clarion call resonates amidst the backdrop of heightened demands for accountability, transparency, and effective governance from the Nigerian populace and also reflects a growing clamour for reform and change in the nation’s political landscape.
Later, during a courtesy visit to Governor Godwin Obaseki in Benin City, Obasanjo reiterated the essence of selfless leadership, emphasizing the opportunity and privilege it entails and urged current leaders to prioritize the welfare of the people over personal interests, especially in light of the prevailing economic challenges.
Optimistic about Nigeria’s future, despite its current hardships, Obasanjo urged leaders to adopt a collective mindset focused on securing a prosperous tomorrow for all generations.
He stressed the importance of sustainable development, emphasizing the need to balance present needs with future aspirations.
Reflecting on his own vitality at 87, Obasanjo attributed his good health to a holistic approach encompassing diet, rest, exercise, medical care, social interaction, and contentment. He encouraged individuals to embrace aging gracefully and maintain a positive outlook on life.
Obasanjo also reiterated the imperative for Nigeria to nurture a new breed of leaders capable of navigating the complexities of the modern world and called for a paradigm shift towards leadership grounded in love, empathy, and a commitment to transformative change.
