Nigeria’s quest for national development will be achieved and sustained through the adoption of leadership model that promotes innovation, ethical governance and collaboration.

This model will entail having visionary leadership and a collective commitment from stakeholders in order to chart a strong course for the country.

Dr Alim Abubakre, Senior Lecturer at Sheffield Business School, UK made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.

He was speaking on the sidelines of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary On Oct. 1.

Abubakre said that the country was already successfully coasting home through the government and private sectors various policies and programmes aimed at bringing it out of the woods.

‘Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment in its history, with enormous opportunities for growth and transformation.

‘By embracing a leadership model that prioritises innovation, ethical governance, collaboration, and grassroots empowerment, Nigeria can overcome its
current challenges and become a beacon of progress in Africa.

‘The journey ahead will undoubtedly be demanding, but with visionary leadership and a collective commitment to change, the dawn of a new era for Nigeria is within reach.

‘Now, more than ever, leaders across government, business, and civil society must rise to the occasion and work together to create a future where every Nigerian has the opportunity to thrive,’ he said.

According to Abubakre, Nigeria with its immense natural resources, is still faced with persistent challenges, adding that its youth population and entrepreneurial spirit will make to triumph at the end.

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He said that Nigeria needs not only continuity or repetition of old patterns but a bold and radical commitment to transformative leadership.

‘The type of leadership that does more than manage or mitigate problems but serves as a catalyst for meaningful and lasting change across government, the private sector,
and civil society.’

Abubakre, who is the Founder and non-Executive Chair of TEXEM, said that Nigeria must move towards adequate funding, proper coordination and adopt initiatives that impacts positively citizens.

He added that Nigeria is not the only country that is grappling with social and political challenges currently, adding in such circumstance nations had to adopt workable strategies to survive.

‘One of the most pressing challenges for Nigerian leaders is the need to create an environment that fosters innovation, particularly in the private sector.

‘South Korea’s dramatic transformation from one of the poorest nations in the 1960s to a global economic powerhouse by the 21st century is a testament to the power of strategic leadership, adaptability, and collaboration.

‘At the heart of this transformation was a robust innovation ecosystem built through public-private partnerships and heavy government investment in infrastructure and research and development (R and D).

‘Already, Nigeria’s burgeoning
fintech industry demonstrates the country’s entrepreneurial potential, but to truly thrive, this potential needs to be matched by supportive infrastructure.

‘Leaders must eliminate the regulatory hurdles that hinder startups and provide the necessary mentorship, resources, and financing to spur innovation.’

Abubakre also said that government must encourage the private sector to evolve sustainable business practices, fair labour conditions, or non-interest financial models.

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‘In a country where many citizens are disenfranchised by both government and business, ethical leadership in the private sector has the power to restore trust and catalyse national progres.

‘Nigerian leaders, both in government and the private sector, must prioritise policies that facilitate access to microfinance for underserved communities.

‘Training and development initiatives that equip local leaders with the skills needed to drive economic empowerm
ent will be essential,’ he said.

Abubakre said these steps are necessary because government cannot single-handedly deliver development, and the private sector cannot flourish in isolation.

‘A public-private partnership could leverage both government policy and private sector expertise to develop sustainable, long-term solutions to Nigeria’s persistent electricity shortage.

‘This would not only boost the country’s industrial capabilities but also improve the quality of life for millions of Nigerians.’

To curb the factors that stifle development, Abubakre called for leaders with appropriate management capabilities at all levels in order to navigate crises effectively.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria