Experts Advocate for Practical Support Over Praise for Nigeria's Emerging Leaders
In Lagos over the weekend, a compelling call for a transformative approach to leadership in Nigeria resonated as policymakers, academics, and governance specialists convened for the launch of the book Leading at 27: How Young Leaders Can Change the World by Seyi Adisa. The event drew a notable assembly of public figures, including Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment; Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, Ambassador-designate to Austria; Senator Abdulfatai Buhari; Prof. Sola Ajayi, Vice Chancellor of First Technical University, Ibadan; and former Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Toye Arulogun, among others.
Warning on Inadequate Grounding for Young Leaders
Florence Ajimobi, who chaired the book launch, issued a stark warning: a rising number of young leaders are assuming influential roles without the essential foundation needed to sustain their impact. She emphasized that mere applause is insufficient; these individuals require concrete tools and guidance to thrive in demanding environments.
Book Origins and Practical Focus
Author Seyi Adisa, formerly Principal Private Secretary to the late Abiola Ajimobi, revealed that the book's inspiration stemmed from a conversation with a public servant on the verge of resigning due to burnout and frustration. Adisa highlighted that while young Nigerians often possess vision and capability, they are frequently thrust into intricate systems without adequate support. His book is designed as a practical manual, not a theoretical text, offering frameworks and reflection tools to help readers tackle real-world leadership challenges effectively.
Introduction of GLANCE Initiative
During the event, Adisa introduced GLANCE—Governors, Leadership and National Civic Engagement—a network of campus-based clubs aimed at scaling leadership development across Nigerian universities. This initiative targets equipping 10,000 young leaders, each expected to mentor others through a structured model of peer learning and replication, fostering a sustainable cycle of growth.
Endorsements and Critical Insights
Dr. Jumoke Oduwole praised Adisa as a kindred spirit in public service, noting his consistency and growth. She remarked, To step into public service at 27 and navigate it with humility and effectiveness speaks volumes. Seyi, I am proud of you. Your best is still ahead. Dr. Ini Abimbola, in a strategic endorsement, questioned whether Nigeria's leadership gap results more from a failure of preparation than a lack of talent. He stated, We have the numbers, but we do not have the capacity. The missing are the structures, mentorship, frameworks, and honest conversations about what it truly costs to lead in a country like Nigeria.
Challenging Leadership Assumptions
Leadership expert Fela Durotoye challenged conventional views, arguing that the crisis may stem from how leadership is perceived. He explained, For decades, we told a generation they were the leaders of tomorrow. What that did was postpone their sense of responsibility. Leadership became something distant, something external. Ayobami Tunde, Co-Founder of T & A Legal, commended Adisa for his passion, commitment, and transformational leadership, evident in the lives he has impacted in both private and public service.
The event underscored a collective push for equipping young leaders with practical resources to drive meaningful change in Nigeria.
