Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo criticized Nigeria's leadership during the Leadership Empowerment International Conference, blaming "self-centred" leaders for the country's stagnation. He emphasized the need for transformational leadership focused on service to drive national progress and applauded efforts recognizing leadership excellence.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has sharply criticized the country's leadership, attributing Nigeria's stagnation to a deficit of effective governance. Speaking at the Leadership Empowerment International Conference in Abeokuta on August 17, Obasanjo lambasted current leaders as “self-centred,” arguing that their approach has hindered Nigeria’s progress. He called for a shift from transactional to transformational leadership, emphasizing that service should be the cornerstone of governance.
Obasanjo, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, also praised the initiative of the International Coordinator of Priesthood Leadership Development Initiative, Prof. Olusesi Obateye, and the South Africa-based Institute’s President, Prof. Van Den Berg Edward Alfred, for recognizing and promoting leadership excellence. The conference honored 25 Nigerians with honorary doctorates in leadership, including notable figures from Ogun State and beyond.
In his address, Obasanjo highlighted that effective leadership is crucial for Nigeria’s development and urged Nigerians to advocate for leaders who are committed to service rather than self-interest. He stressed that good leadership is essential for addressing the country’s challenges and achieving sustainable progress. The former president’s comments reflect ongoing concerns about leadership quality in Nigeria and the need for substantial reform.
