Evolving Leadership to Address Nigeria’s 21st Century Challenges

Reuben Abati emphasized the need for evolution in Nigerian leadership to meet 21st-century challenges during his keynote speech at Baze University’s Founders Day. He addressed the impact of digital transformation on governance, underscoring ethical leadership and institutional reforms necessary to counter national issues. The event also celebrated the university’s significant growth and commitment to education as a transformative power in society.

On Tuesday, Reuben Abati, a distinguished journalist, asserted that leadership in Nigeria must adapt to effectively tackle the challenges of the 21st century. While addressing the audience at Baze University’s Founders Day celebration in Abuja, he emphasized that Nigeria’s governance issues have evolved alongside digital advancements, necessitating a transformation in governance practices.

As the keynote speaker, Mr. Abati discussed the theme of “Leadership in a Disruptive Era: Ethics, Accountability, and the Future of Governance in Nigeria”. He highlighted that while digital transformation offers benefits, it also presents challenges such as misinformation, cyber-attacks, and data breaches, stating that governance must evolve accordingly.

He asserted, “In a disruptive era, leadership transcends traditional authority and requires a proactive, visionary, and ethical approach.” Mr. Abati further explained that effective leadership in today’s climate must address Nigeria’s political instability, economic volatility, and technological disruptions through a framework of ethical decision-making and strategic governance.

A critical point he raised was the importance of building public trust, achievable through accountability and a commitment to sustainable national development. He remarked, “The future of governance depends on the ability of leaders to rise above personal interest and prioritize collective good.”

Abati also discussed the necessity of institutional reforms to bolster governance in Nigeria, citing prevailing issues such as corruption, nepotism, and abuse of power as significant barriers to progress. He proposed enhancing the independence of anti-corruption agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and stressed the importance of evidence-based policymaking to maintain continuity in developmental programs despite political changes.

During the event, Vice-Chancellor Jamila Shu’ara highlighted the significance of Founder’s Day, commemorating the vision of university founder Yusuf Baba-Ahmed. She reflected on the institution’s growth since its inception in March 2011, noting the development from 17 students to over 6,000 today across various faculties.

Yusuf Baba-Ahmed, the Founder and Chancellor, reiterated the core principles of the institution, emphasizing education as a critical driver for national transformation. He stated, “Today, we celebrate this institution’s remarkable journey, marked by relentless dedication to knowledge, cutting-edge research, and character-driven leadership. “

In conclusion, Reuben Abati’s address at Baze University underscores the imperative for leadership in Nigeria to adapt to the complexities of the modern era. Emphasizing ethical leadership, accountability, and institutional reforms, he advocates for a governance framework that aligns with the evolving digital landscape and the diverse needs of the populace. Furthermore, the growth of Baze University reflects a commitment to educational excellence as a cornerstone for national development.

Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com