Felix Omoh-Asun in Benin City
Prof. Abdulhamid Ozohu-Suleiman, Director, the Abuja Leadership Centre – TETFUND Centre of Excellence in Public Governance and Leadership, University of Abuja, has harped on the need for leadership training.
Prof Ozohu-Suleiman said that leadership must not be left to chance but developed, shaped, directed and refined.
According to him, future leaders of Nigeria must be equipped with knowledge, mindset and skills needed to lead effectively.
In a speech on Thursday in Benin, Edo State capital, during South South Zone Youths’ Clinic with the theme: Empowering the Next Generation Leaders, encouraged youths in the South-South region to explore economic opportunities beyond oil and gas, noting that entrepreneurship and responsible leadership are essential to addressing societal challenges and advancing national development.
“Leadership is not about shouting commands, leadership is about influencing people positively. Leadership is the willingness to take responsibility even when others shy away and leadership is about doing the right even no one is watching,” he asserted.
Prof. Ozohu-Suleiman urged young people to embrace integrity, innovation, teamwork and practical skills as tools for sustainable development.
The South-South Zonal Coordinator of the Abuja Leadership Centre, University of Abuja, Osimala Emmanuel Osilama, described the Clinic as a platform for bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical leadership, while encouraging young people to embrace integrity, discipline, responsibility and service to humanity.
The zonal coordinator also called for stronger collaboration among government, educational institutions, the private sector, professional bodies and community leaders to create sustainable opportunities for youth empowerment and leadership development.
Also speaking, Hon. Donald Okogbe, Member representing Akoko-Edo Constituency II at the Edo State House of Assembly and Chairman of the House Committee on Education, urged young people to cultivate a strong reading culture, discipline, good character and responsible leadership.
Drawing from his personal experience, Okogbe emphasised that “readers are leaders,” noting that while talent and connections may open doors, character sustains success.
He cautioned youths against distractions, particularly excessive social media use, and encouraged them to focus on activities that promote learning, personal growth and future success.
He further challenged the younger generation to prepare themselves for leadership and embrace the responsibility of producing visionary leaders capable of transforming Edo State and Nigeria