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Nigeria needs innovative solution makers

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By Abiodun Okunloye

The country's advancement relies on leaders who promote creativity.

As the world pushes for advancement and new ideas, Nigeria is at a pivotal point. There is a pressing need for leaders with not only strategic vision but also creativity to devise solutions that tackle the specific obstacles the nation encounters. This message was central to the discussions that took place at the Niyi Adesanya Leadership Bootcamp 7.0, which took place in Lagos on November 5th and 6th, 2024. Featuring the theme “The Next Chapter Leadership”, the event emphasised the changing qualities necessary for leaders to foster a thriving future for Nigeria.

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Michael Hastings, a leadership professor at the Stephen R. Covey Leadership Centre at the Huntsman Business School in the United States, stressed that Nigeria’s advancement relies on leaders who promote creativity and seek out fresh approaches to urgent challenges. He stated that the nation requires leaders who focus on enhancing educational access and generating chances for people to fully realise their abilities. Nigeria requires leaders who have opened doors for educational access and unlocked the abilities of its citizens. He further emphasised that upholding the Rule of Law is crucial for sustained Economic Development and stability, insisting that it must be a fundamental aspect of effective leadership.

People from various walks of life will be trained for leadership.

Niyi Adesanya, the organiser of the event, emphasised the significance of having a vision and thinking ahead. He referred to the bootcamp as a leadership journey, uniting individuals from various walks of life to enhance their abilities for the upcoming phase of leadership. An effective leader must learn to discover and leverage, Adesanya remarked. One’s responsibility as a leader is not merely to manage but to inspire a vision. He promoted a concept he refers to as refined leadership, which emphasises the importance of leaders stepping aside to enable others.

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According to Adesanya, effective leadership entails nurturing meaningful connections and forming partnerships. He noted that achieving success in life relies on one’s network. The larger the circle, the greater the chances for opportunity. He urged leaders to consistently strive for advancement, cautioning them not to become complacent after successes. Whenever one achieves a win, refrain from lingering too long in that moment. One should not let compliments cloud judgment; instead, reflect on errors, take note of accomplishments, and harness the energy generated to aspire to greater heights.

Emerging leaders must be developed to lay the groundwork for success.

Also, the gathering also included insight from Caroline Popoola, the CEO of Alpha Childcare Limited, who highlighted the critical role of a robust leadership pipeline. Popoola explained that establishing this Pipeline involves more than just spotting potential; it necessitates fostering talent and constructing avenues for advancement. By prioritising the development of emerging leaders, organisations lay the groundwork for long-term success. Popoola expressed her conviction that establishing a framework for development nurtures leaders who motivate those around them and encourage a spirit of creativity.

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Folashade Adekeye, the Managing Director and CEO of NNPC Properties Limited, emphasised the significance of time, guidance, and being seen in professional growth. She encouraged leaders to thrive in their current positions and underlined the necessity of contributing positively in any role. Everything is influenced by time, and having mentors is crucial, Adekeye stated. She encouraged individuals in various professions to be proactive in showcasing their talents at work and to actively enhance the atmosphere, nurturing a space that encourages everyone to thrive.

Related Article: Nigeria needs leadership skills in schools

Ajibola Bamidele, the CEO of Certification Edge, emphasised the importance of flexibility and ongoing Education for maintaining relevance in our rapidly changing environment. He highlighted that leaders must evolve in tandem with advancements in their fields. He urged participants to concentrate on current successful methods and avoid using ineffective old tactics, mentioning that what was successful for one’s mentor in the past may not benefit another person; it is necessary to enhance one’s skills and discover what is viable today. Contributing to the dialogue, Obafemi Banigbe, the Managing Director of 9mobile, emphasised the need for merging Technology with people-focused leadership.

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