Reuben Abati emphasized the necessity for evolving leadership in Nigeria to address 21st-century challenges during Baze University’s Founders Day. He highlighted the need for ethical governance, institutional reforms, and public trust in leadership to foster sustainable national development. The event also celebrated the university’s significant growth since its establishment.
Reuben Abati, a veteran journalist, stated on Tuesday that leadership in Nigeria must transform to effectively tackle the complex challenges of the 21st century. Speaking during Baze University’s Founders Day celebration in Abuja, he emphasized that Nigeria’s governance challenges have evolved alongside digital transformation, necessitating a corresponding adaptation in governance methods.
As the keynote speaker, Mr. Abati addressed the topic: “Leadership in a Disruptive Era: Ethics, Accountability, and the Future of Governance in Nigeria.” He acknowledged that while digital transformation has advantages, it has also brought forth issues such as misinformation and cyber-attacks, which further complicate governance. He asserted that governance must adapt to these changes.
Mr. Abati remarked, “In a disruptive era, leadership transcends traditional authority and requires a proactive, visionary, and ethical approach.” He highlighted that navigating governance in this era necessitates leaders who exhibit ethics, accountability, and forward-thinking attributes. Given Nigeria’s historical political instability, adaptive leadership is critical for enhancing governance resilience.
Furthermore, he stated that effective leadership today entails addressing political instability, economic challenges, security threats, and technological disruptions through principled decision-making. Abati stressed that a successful government must foster public trust by prioritizing accountability and sustainable national development.
He pointed out that the future of governance hinges on leaders prioritizing collective good over personal interests. Moreover, he identified ethical lapses—such as corruption and nepotism—as significant impediments to national progress and advocated for institutional reforms that strengthen anti-corruption agencies.
Abati suggested that policymakers should adopt evidence-based decision-making and ensure continuity of policies to prevent developmental programs from being disrupted by political transitions. He emphasized the importance of aligning policy frameworks with long-term developmental objectives and incorporating public participation in legislative processes to ensure governance addresses citizens’ needs.
During the event, the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jamila Shu’ara, welcomed attendees and celebrated the institution’s founder, Yusuf Baba-Ahmed. She highlighted the university’s growth from 17 initial students in March 2011 to over 6,000 students across nine faculties today, noting their commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community service.
The founder, Yusuf Baba-Ahmed, reiterated the institution’s founding principles, stating, “education is the most powerful tool for national transformation.” He commended the university for its dedication to knowledge, research, and character-driven leadership that prepares graduates to contribute positively to society.
In conclusion, Reuben Abati has stressed the urgent need for leadership evolution in Nigeria to address contemporary challenges brought about by digital transformation. He advocates for ethical governance, institutional reforms, and the importance of collective good over personal interests. The remarks were made during Baze University’s Founders Day celebration, further underscoring the significance of academic innovation and community service as exemplified by the institution’s growth since its inception.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
