Former President Olusegun Obasanjo don talk say him dey envy former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, because people dey appreciate am while him still dey alive. Obasanjo make dis statement during the opening ceremony of a four-day International Conference of the African Biblical Leadership Initiative wey hold for Abuja.
Obasanjo compare Gowon to the late British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, wey him describe as unsung hero. According to Obasanjo, Churchill fight for Britain but initially no get recognition until towards the end of him life when dem name am ‘Man of the Century’.
Obasanjo say, “Only a few leaders are appreciated in their lifetime. General (Gowon), I envy you because you are appreciated while still alive. That, too, is the grace of God in your life. You are like Winston Churchill. He fought in the night, on the sea, and for the British Empire. In the end, he was unrecognised, called a warmonger, and even voted out of Parliament. Yet, before he died, he was named ‘Man of the Century’ and appreciated.”
Obasanjo also talk about how many leaders no dey get appreciation, including Jesus Christ and most of him disciples. Him say many of dem die in ways wey no befit leader. Obasanjo express concern about how global leadership standards dey decline, saying many current leaders rely only on intuition and no understand crucial leadership matters.
Former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, support Obasanjo’s views, calling for effective leadership in Africa. Gana say, “In a world characterised by unprecedented challenges and complexities, Africa stands at a critical juncture. The need for visionary, ethical, and value-based leadership has never been more urgent. The future of Africa hinges on our ability to cultivate leaders who are not only competent but also compassionate and committed to the well-being of ordinary citizens across our countries.”
