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Effective leadership selection is crucial for countries, as the quality of leaders significantly influences a nation’s achievements. Moreover, politics should aim to enhance the welfare of the people by promoting the maximum happiness for the largest number of individuals. A poor leadership selection process has hindered progress in Nigeria, as those lacking the necessary skills and desire to serve the public have occupied key positions.

Why is this the case? Elections have become commercialized: the expenses related to expressing interest, submitting nomination forms, running campaigns, and managing other logistical aspects are beyond the financial capacity of individuals who genuinely wish to serve selflessly, thus preventing them from contesting in elections. This is why those with ill-gotten wealth and individuals ready to comply with the demands of insatiable predators, bound by cult-like loyalty, end up controlling the nation’s resources. This situation significantly hinders Nigeria’s development, which is why it continues to be referred to as the ‘creeping giant’ of Africa.

Have you ever questioned why certain states flourish while others face difficulties, even within the same country? The explanation usually stems from the effectiveness of their leadership. Each state possesses resources. Leadership acts as the guiding force that leads countries or organizations toward success or failure. However, a significant number of African nations experience a lack of strong leadership, causing them to be directionless without a clear path. Failing to attract and retain outstanding leaders can hinder development, lower public morale, and disrupt long-term objectives. This is why recruiting leadership demands a focused approach to identifying, drawing in, and securing high-caliber leadership talent capable of driving your nation or organization forward.

With the 2027 general elections approaching, which will be held in almost all states of the federation, it is essential to review Nigeria’s leadership selection process. Leadership has been acknowledged as one of the key factors influencing the effectiveness of any organization, institution, or country. Numerous studies have shown that exceptional financial and organizational performance, along with other forms of achievement, are associated with strong leadership. Experts have suggested that the success or failure of organizations and nations largely depends on the quality of leadership.

Several of the most cherished presidents across the globe have been characterized as “ordinary individuals.” They were accessible, truthful, genuine, and down-to-earth. Supporters seek a leader they can connect with, and who can also connect with them. Although you may not be the head of a country or even a company, since you hold some level of influence, it’s crucial for you to genuinely care about others while staying true to yourself. The higher you rise in leadership, the more likely you are to become separated from those you lead. By staying authentic, you can effectively handle the challenges that come your way.

It is equally important to note that the higher your position in leadership, the greater your impact on others and the more extensive your responsibilities will be. What is currently happening in Nigeria reflects positive leadership. It is evident that when the right people are in power, development naturally follows. Currently, Nigerians are experiencing an end to fuel shortages. There are no more long lines at gas stations. This is commendable. We should credit this to the current ruling party. Mr. President, we need more local investors in that sector.

We require leaders who are willing to step forward and accept accountability for their roles. A servant-leader is becoming a rare species. It’s time to reconsider leadership in Nigeria. For many years, the media have provided bleak forecasts. According to them, quality leaders are on the decline. If leaders are straying from the right path, how can they return to it? Although I agree with these views, I believe the matter needs to be tackled before the upcoming general elections. We should ensure that caring and responsible individuals hold positions of power. The reason being: when virtuous people lose elections, the country suffers as well. The home is an ideal starting point. Nigerian leaders have a choice: either feel insufficient or become significantly more innovative. In this context, we should acknowledge the current President. He is not giving in to the circumstances.

Abraham Lincoln once went to the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church to listen to a sermon given by the pastor, Dr. Gurley. During the time when the civil war was taking place, Lincoln felt discouraged. After the sermon, one of Lincoln’s assistants asked him what he thought about the message. Lincoln responded, “I thought it was well-considered, strongly presented, and very eloquent.” Therefore, the assistant believed Lincoln found it to be an excellent sermon. However, Lincoln added, “No, it didn’t work, because the pastor didn’t ask something significant from us.”

I am asking God to inspire our leaders to accomplish remarkable things in improving the conditions of ordinary Nigerians for His honor and humanity. Although it may not appear in the news, future generations will never forget. It is also important to emphasize that successors should achieve even greater accomplishments than their predecessors. In Lagos state, since the start of the fourth republic up to now, it has been fortunate to have capable successors. You might dislike their political approaches, but they are delivering the benefits of democracy, creating legacies that are unmatched in Nigeria. In contrast, what is happening in Rivers state reflects a lack of confidence in the previous leader. If you, as a leader, are constantly having problems with your successor, then your legacy is questionable. I am praying that my generation will not fail in this responsibility. There is a lot of work ahead, especially with the upcoming elections. I hope aspiring leaders will bring about positive change. They will consider the cost, bear the price, step forward, and face the vulture-like behavior that hinders development and progress.

I am praying to God for the body of Christ and the Islamic foundations to possess a resilience that appears to be missing at this time. President Donald Trump urged us to take action. Caleb was an elderly man when he declared, “Give me this mountain.” Samuel was a young individual when he received a message from God. Once more, I am appealing to God to utilize this message to inspire individuals from all generations and backgrounds to be brave.

Every journey starts with a single step. As previously mentioned, this change must begin at the household level. Schools. Councilors. Local government officials. Members of the House of Assembly. Members of the House of Representatives. Senators. State Governors. And eventually, at the national level. In fairness to the current central administration, it is making significant progress in certain areas. The developments in the education sector demonstrate that genuine leadership can transform a country’s prospects. Providing interest-free loans (NELFUND) to eligible students in our higher education institutions deserves recognition. Additionally, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has recently reached an agreement with the Federal Government, which will end ongoing strikes and offer better incentives to lecturers, with professors receiving fair compensation. This will help reduce brain drain and the ‘japa’ phenomenon. What does this tell us? When there is political determination, solutions are always possible. However, this approach must be applied to the real economy. In 2014, a bag of rice cost seven thousand naira (N7,000.00). Now, it exceeds fifty thousand naira (N50,000.00). Although this may be seen as a policy change, we should not let it worsen the lives of ordinary Nigerians trying to survive.

Olakunle Yusuf, a professional in Media and Public Relations. You can contact him at 08023423396.

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