A leader’s duty is often to lead his people to a better future, but few receive the recognition they deserve in their lifetime. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo recently paid tribute to General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s former Head of State, praising his exceptional leadership and comparing him to the famous British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill.
Speaking at the African Biblical Leadership Initiative (ABLI) conference in Abuja, Obasanjo highlighted Gowon’s lasting impact on Nigeria, praising his vision and actions. He noted that few leaders are fully appreciated in their lifetime, paying tribute to Gowon for the respect he is accorded now.
The conference, themed ‘Values-Based Leadership Model for Africa’, brought together African and European leaders, as well as global Christian figures, to discuss leadership challenges on the continent.
Obasanjo warned against the decline in global leadership standards and advocated for visionary and ethical leadership in Africa. He expressed admiration for Gowon and highlighted the similarities with Churchill, noting that even the greatest leaders can be misunderstood in their lifetime.
He recalled that Winston Churchill, despite fighting hard for the British Empire, was criticized and ousted from Parliament, only to be named ‘Man of the Century’ after his death. Obasanjo noted that many great leaders, including religious figures like Jesus Christ, were not celebrated in their lifetime, stressing the importance of focusing on one’s mission rather than on the recognition of others.
With the world facing many conflicts, Obasanjo stressed the need for competent and compassionate governance to resolve these global challenges. His advocacy for ethical and values-based leadership resonates particularly in the current context, where Africa is facing unprecedented challenges.
In these challenging times, when the future of Africa rests on the shoulders of its leaders, it is crucial to cultivate competent leaders who are dedicated to the well-being of their fellow citizens. The wisdom and experience shared at this conference underscore the urgency of promoting responsible and enlightened leadership to build a better future for all.