News
By Alim Abubakar
As Nigeria approaches yet another independence anniversary, it stands at the precipice of profound transformation. Endowed with immense natural resources, a dynamic youth population, and an entrepreneurial spirit that is palpable across every sector, the nation possesses unparalleled potential. Yet, Nigeria’s story—though rich in achievements—is still overshadowed by a persistent set of challenges that have stifled its progress. At this critical juncture, what Nigeria demands is not continuity or repetition of old patterns but a bold and radical commitment to transformative leadership. The type of leadership that does more than manage or mitigate problems but serves as a catalyst for meaningful and lasting change across government, the private sector, and civil society.
The challenges facing Nigeria today are multifaceted and cut across every sector of society.
These obstacles require not just innovative solutions but principled and adaptive leadership. In government, issues such as transparency, governance, and inefficiency continue to erode public trust, hindering the implementation of policies that could propel the nation forward. The private sector struggles under the weight of infrastructural deficits, restrictive regulatory frameworks, and limited access to financing, all of which stymie entrepreneurship and curtail economic diversification. Meanwhile, the third sector, which is crucial for social progress, often grapples with inadequate funding, poor coordination, and an inability to scale initiatives that could drive meaningful impact.
Yet, the time for change is now. Nigeria is not the first country to grapple with these types of challenges. Nations across Africa, Asia, and beyond have faced similar hurdles, but some have emerged stronger by embracing leadership models rooted in innovation, adaptability, collaboration, and ethical governance. From South Korea’s meteoric rise from poverty to private sector success stories globally, valuable lessons abound. By applying these insights and strategies, Nigeria can not only overcome its current challenges but also lay the foundation for a more prosperous, equitable, and inclusive future.
Leading through innovation and adaptability: The case of South Korea
One of the most pressing challenges for Nigerian leaders is the need to create an environment that fosters innovation, particularly in the private sector. South Korea’s dramatic transformation from one of the poorest nations in the 1960s to a global economic powerhouse by the 21st century is a testament to the power of strategic leadership, adaptability, and collaboration. At the heart of this transformation was a robust innovation ecosystem built through public-private partnerships and heavy government investment in infrastructure and research and development.
For Nigeria, emulating South Korea’s approach could be a game-changer. Establishing innovation hubs that integrate government, academia, and the private sector could ignite an ecosystem that encourages entrepreneurship, technological advancement, and economic diversification. Nigeria’s burgeoning fintech industry already demonstrates the country’s entrepreneurial potential, but to truly thrive, this potential needs to be matched by supportive infrastructure. Leaders must eliminate the regulatory hurdles that hinder startups and provide the necessary mentorship, resources, and financing to spur innovation.
A prime example of this could be the tech industry in Lagos. By creating special economic zones for tech startups and offering tax incentives, Nigeria could foster an environment similar to Silicon Valley, where innovation thrives through collaboration between government bodies, universities, and private enterprises.
Ethical leadership and governance: The role of the private sector
Nigeria’s governance challenges have often been attributed to the public sector, but the private sector also has a crucial role to play in promoting ethical leadership. Ethical leadership is not just about avoiding corruption; it is about instilling a culture of accountability, transparency, and fairness at every level of operation. Take, for instance, the example of Unilever, a global consumer goods company that has embraced ethical leadership as a central tenet of its business strategy. By prioritising sustainable sourcing, corporate transparency, and environmental stewardship, Unilever has built trust with both consumers and investors while delivering long-term profitability.
Nigeria’s private sector can lead by adopting similar practices. By embedding ethics into their core operations—whether through sustainable business practices, fair labour conditions, or non-interest financial models—companies can attract not only customers but also investment from international markets that prioritise corporate social responsibility. In a country where many citizens are disenfranchised by both government and business, ethical leadership in the private sector has the power to restore trust and catalyse national progress.
For instance, Nigeria can draw inspiration from the growing global movement towards ethical finance, particularly non-interest finance models. These finance systems, grounded in ethical principles, can provide alternatives to traditional interest-based lending. By promoting non-interest finance, Nigerian banks and financial institutions could help bridge the gap for individuals and businesses that are often excluded from traditional financial services. Not only does this promote financial inclusion, but it also aligns with the ethical governance principles that the country needs to adopt across the board.
Social entrepreneurship and grassroots empowerment: Insights from India
Social entrepreneurship is another avenue through which Nigerian leaders can drive both social progress and economic development. India’s microfinance revolution offers a compelling example of how grassroots empowerment can lead to transformative change. Organisations like the Grameen Bank and India’s numerous microfinance institutions have brought millions of underserved individuals into the formal economy, providing them with access to credit, which in turn has allowed small businesses to thrive and entire communities to uplift themselves from poverty.
With its vast rural population and significant socio-economic disparities, Nigeria is ripe for a similar movement. Nigerian leaders—both in government and the private sector—must prioritise policies that facilitate access to microfinance for underserved communities. Training and development initiatives that equip local leaders with the skills needed to drive economic empowerment will be essential. By empowering communities to develop their own solutions—through access to education, capital, and entrepreneurial skills—Nigeria can foster a sustainable model of development that not only reduces dependence on government aid but also promotes inclusive economic growth.
Collaboration and strategic partnerships: Learning from Singapore
Singapore, a small island nation with virtually no natural resources, offers one of the most powerful case studies on the importance of collaboration and strategic partnerships. Under the visionary leadership of Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore transformed itself into a global financial and technological hub in a matter of decades. This transformation was made possible through the government’s strategic partnerships with multinational corporations, academic institutions, and civil society organisations. Singapore’s model underscores the importance of recognising human capital as the most valuable resource for any nation.
In Nigeria, collaboration across sectors is not just important—it is essential. The government cannot single-handedly deliver development, and the private sector cannot flourish in isolation. Joint ventures between government, businesses, and civil society can drive progress in key areas such as infrastructure, technology, and education. A clear example of this would be addressing Nigeria’s energy crisis. A public-private partnership could leverage both government policy and private sector expertise to develop sustainable, long-term solutions to Nigeria’s persistent electricity shortage. This would not only boost the country’s industrial capabilities but also improve the quality of life for millions of Nigerians.
Leadership in times of crisis: Navigating Nigeria’s headwinds
Crises, whether economic, political, or environmental, test the mettle of a nation’s leaders. Nigeria, like many other nations, faces numerous headwinds, from economic instability and political unrest to global shifts in trade and climate change. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the vital importance of agile, responsive leadership during times of crisis. Leaders must not only make quick, informed decisions but also communicate effectively with stakeholders to ensure trust and cooperation during difficult times.
Agility, decisiveness, and clear communication will be critical traits for Nigeria’s leaders as they navigate the complex challenges of the future. Leadership development programs must focus not just on strategic long-term thinking but on equipping leaders with the crisis management skills they will need to respond effectively to emerging challenges. Training leaders in these skills will build resilience at all levels of government, business, and civil society, ensuring that Nigeria is prepared not just to survive but to thrive in an increasingly unpredictable global landscape.
A call to action: Thriving amidst challenges
To thrive amidst these challenges, Nigerian leaders must adopt a forward-looking, transformative leadership model that benefits everyone—from large corporations to small businesses, from individual citizens to entire communities. This leadership model should promote sustainable development, good governance, and inclusive growth. The creation of innovation hubs is one critical step. By bringing together government, businesses, and academic institutions, Nigeria can foster an innovation ecosystem similar to Silicon Valley. Lagos, for instance, has the potential to become a global tech hub if public-private partnerships provide the necessary incentives, support, and infrastructure for startups to thrive.
Ethical leadership must also become the cornerstone of governance at all levels—both public and private.
By establishing independent anti-corruption bodies and implementing rigorous accountability measures, Nigeria can rebuild public trust, attract foreign direct investment, and create a more stable, resilient economic environment. Leaders across sectors should embrace ethical business models, such as non-interest finance, that promote financial inclusion while adhering to ethical principles.
Social entrepreneurship, too, must be a priority. Providing access to microfinance, training, and capital for rural entrepreneurs will empower communities, create jobs, and drive inclusive growth. Local governments could partner with non-governmental organisations to support female entrepreneurs in northern Nigeria, helping to address both gender inequality and stimulate local economies.
Collaboration between sectors is another critical component. Leaders must form partnerships between government, businesses, and civil society to accelerate development in key areas such as infrastructure and education. These partnerships could take the form of joint ventures, with the government providing policy frameworks and private firms contributing expertise and funding to sustainable infrastructure projects.
Transparency and accountability must be central to leadership priorities. By implementing clear checks and balances and leading by example, Nigerian leaders can build a more efficient, trustworthy public sector that fosters confidence among both citizens and investors.
Lastly, crisis management capabilities must be strengthened at all levels of leadership. Training programs should focus on equipping leaders with the skills needed to navigate crises effectively. This could involve crisis simulation exercises at the local government level to prepare officials for making rapid decisions in times of economic downturns, pandemics, or natural disasters.
In conclusion, Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment in its history, with enormous opportunities for growth and transformation. By embracing a leadership model that prioritises innovation, ethical governance, collaboration, and grassroots empowerment, Nigeria can overcome its current challenges and become a beacon of progress in Africa. The journey ahead will undoubtedly be demanding, but with visionary leadership and a collective commitment to change, the dawn of a new era for Nigeria is within reach. Now, more than ever, leaders across government, business, and civil society must rise to the occasion and work together to create a future where every Nigerian has the opportunity to thrive.
News
Supreme Court judgment: Wabara-led BoT takes charge of PDP, directs staff to resume at Wadata House
Following Thursday’s ruling of the Supreme Court, the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has assumed effective charge and is expected to appoint a new caretaker committee to pilot affairs of the party.
The apex court had in its ruling, upheld judgements of the Federal high court and the court of Appeal which invalidated the November 2025 Ibadan convention as well as the expulsion of some members of the party including Sam Anyanwu and others.
By the ruling, all actions taken by the faction led by FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, have become null and void, including the March Abuja conversation and appointment of a caretaker committee. This is in view of the fact that most of the members of the committee were among those expelled by the party.
Following the Thursday ruling by the Supreme Court, leaders and stakeholders of the PDP including governors, senators, reps members and others met in Abuja Thursday night where board of Trustees of the party took effective charge of affairs, in accordance with the party’s constitution.
Subsequently, Chairman of PDP BoT, Senator Adolphus Wabara, said the board has assumed leadership of the opposition party.
Wabara, in a statement, said the board would convene an emergency meeting of the PDP National Executive Committee(m (NEC), to appoint an interim executive to take charge of the affairs of the party.
The BoT statement reads, “It is with the utmost sense of duty and responsibility that the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) assumes leadership of our great party today, Thursday, 30th April, 2026 pursuant to the empowering provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (As amended in 2017).
“This constitutional intervention of the BoT is so as not to allow any leadership vacuum at the national level of our party following judgment of the Supreme Court.
“Sadly, the Supreme Court, today delivered an unpleasant judgment against our party in which it pronounced an invalidation of the 15th to 16th November 2025 National Convention of the PDP held in Ibadan, Oyo State, which produced the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee of our Party.
“While the Supreme Court invalidated the Ibadan Convention, it also in a unanimous decision of the five justices on the panel, upheld the suspension of Senator Samuel Anyanwu, Hon. Umar Bature, Kamaldeen Ajibade as National Secretary, National Organizing Secretary and National Legal Adviser respectively from the Party.
“The implication of today’s judgment by the Supreme Court is that all actions taken by Senator Samuel Anyanwu, Hon. Umar Bature and Barr. Kamaldeen Ajibade including the appointment of Abdulrahman Mohammed as Acting National Chairman, the composition of the National Caretaker Working Committee and the conduct and outcome of the March 29th, 2026 Convention in Abuja are illegal, null and ab initio void.
“The consequential invalidation of both the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led as well as the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led Working Committees directly places the statutory onus of leadership of our great party on the shoulders of the Board of Trustees (BoT) as the Second Highest Organ of the Party, pursuant to the express and unambiguous provision of Section 32 (5) of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017).
“Against this backdrop, the BoT hereby immediately assumes responsibility of the national working leadership of the PDP as immediate constitutional remedial steps to foster genuine reconciliation, salvage, stabilize and return the party to good political health.”
Wabara added that “in the light of the foregoing an emergency meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC), pursuant to the provisions of Section 31 of the Constitution of the PDP will be summoned to, among other things, appoint an Interim National Working Committee to take charge of the National Secretariat of our Party and pilot the affairs of the Party at the national level so as to meet all the timeline in the Electoral Act, 2026 and ensure that the PDP fields candidates and also emerged victorious in all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
“Consequently, all staff of the PDP are hereby directed to resume at the National Secretariat of the Party under the leadership of the BoT ahead of the appointment of the Interim National Working Committee.
“The BoT commends the courage, effort and resilience of our governors, Governor Bala Mohammed and Governor Seyi Makinde, the National Assembly caucus, the National Ex-officios, the Forum of PDP State Chairmen and State chapters, the Youth and Women Wings and other organs and bodies in the PDP for standing strong for the party at this trying time.
“The BoT therefore calls on all leaders and members of the party to jettison all personal and group interests and come together as one family in the overall interest of our Party, democracy and the wellbeing of millions of Nigerians whose hope are anchored on the PDP.
“The PDP has suffered enough; the painful victims of this unfortunate episode is the Nigerian people. The time has therefore come for us to make sacrifices, sheathe our swords and embrace genuine reconciliations for lasting peace and chart a new course for our party. “
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, has urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deregister five political parties, arguing that their continued existence violates constitutional provisions and undermines Nigeria’s electoral integrity.
In court filings, the Attorney General contended that unless the court intervenes, INEC would “continue to act in breach of its constitutional duty” by retaining parties that have failed to meet the minimum requirements prescribed by law.
The filing stressed that the right to associate as a political party is not absolute and must be exercised within constitutional limits. It further argued that it is in the interest of justice for the court to grant the reliefs sought by the plaintiffs.
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2637/2026 and filed at the Abuja Judicial Division of the Federal High Court, lists the Incorporated Trustees of the National Forum of Former Legislators as the plaintiff.
The defendants include INEC as the first defendant and the Attorney General of the Federation as the second defendant, alongside five political parties: African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Alliance (AA), Action Peoples Party (APP), Accord (A), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
At the center of the issue in the case is whether INEC has a constitutional obligation to remove parties that fail to meet electoral performance thresholds set out in Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and reinforced by the Electoral Act 2022 and INEC’s own regulations.
The plaintiffs argue that the affected parties have persistently failed to satisfy the constitutional benchmarks required to retain their registration. These include winning at least 25 per cent of votes in a state during a presidential election or securing at least one elective seat at the national, state or local government level.
They contend that the parties performed poorly in the 2023 general elections and subsequent by-elections, failing to win seats across key tiers of government, yet continue to be recognised by INEC as eligible political platforms.
The plaintiffs maintain that this continued recognition is unlawful and undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.
In the affidavit supporting the suit, the forum’s national coordinator, Igbokwe Raphael Nnanna, states that allowing parties that have not met constitutional requirements to remain on the register “is unconstitutional, illegal and a violation” of the governing legal framework.
The suit asks the court to declare that INEC is duty-bound to deregister such parties and to compel the commission to do so before preparations for the 2027 elections advance further.
Beyond declaratory reliefs, the plaintiffs are also seeking far-reaching orders that would bar the affected parties from participating in the next general elections or engaging in political activities such as campaigns, rallies and primaries. They further request injunctions restraining INEC from recognising or dealing with the parties in any official capacity unless and until they comply strictly with constitutional provisions.
Central to the plaintiffs’ argument is their interpretation of the law as imposing a mandatory duty on INEC. They argue that the use of the word “shall” in the Constitution leaves no room for discretion once a party fails to meet the stipulated thresholds.
In their written address, they rely on statutory provisions and judicial precedents to contend that electoral performance is an objective condition that must be enforced to maintain discipline, transparency, and accountability in the political system.
Attorney General backs plaintiff
In a notice filed pursuant to Order 15 Rule 1 of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019, the Attorney General, who is a defendant in the suit, formally admitted the plaintiff’s case to the extent of his constitutional responsibilities.
He maintained that, as the chief law officer of the federation, he is duty-bound to defend and uphold the Constitution, including ensuring compliance with the Electoral Act and other laws governing elections in Nigeria.
The filing emphasised that the Attorney General’s role extends beyond litigation to preventive oversight, ensuring that laws are faithfully implemented to maintain public confidence in the electoral process. It described the case as a public interest litigation aimed at safeguarding democratic integrity and promoting constitutional observance.
According to the document, the Attorney General argued that citizens, including the plaintiff group, have the right to challenge constitutional breaches, particularly where electoral processes are concerned. He added that supporting such litigation aligns with his dual role as both a defender of the state and an advocate for citizens’ rights.
The submission also highlighted the broader implications of non-compliance by political parties. It argued that the continued existence of parties that fail to meet constitutional thresholds contributes to ballot congestion, increases the cost of election administration, and undermines the intent of Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers INEC to deregister underperforming parties.
The plaintiff further contended that INEC has no residual discretion to retain parties that do not satisfy the constitutional criteria, insisting that failure to deregister them constitutes a continuing breach of constitutional duty. The suit warned that such inaction could be challenged through public interest litigation, as is the case before the court.
Additionally, the filing noted that the plaintiff, comprising former legislators, possesses the requisite standing to institute the action, having been directly involved in the enactment and oversight of Nigeria’s constitutional and electoral framework.
The Attorney General also underscored the importance of access to justice, arguing that his support for the suit would help bridge gaps faced by citizens seeking to enforce constitutional rights. He maintained that collaboration between government institutions and civic actors is essential to strengthening legal literacy, accountability, and democratic participation.
The Attorney General of the Federation is represented in the suit by a team of lawyers led by Prof. J. O. Olatoke, SAN, alongside O. J. David, U. O. Olufadi, D. O. Bamidele, V. D. Maiye, Waheed Abdulraheem and A. K. Abdulmumin, all of whom signed the court filing before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
….The Commission wants IGP to address use of excessive force by police
The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu OFR, SAN, has strongly condemned the alleged extrajudicial killing of a 28-year-old Nigerian, Mene Ogidi, by a police officer, ASP Nuhu Usman, on April 26, 2026, in Efurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Dr. Ojukwu described the incident as “deeply disturbing and a direct assault on human dignity, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the rule of law.”
He stressed that no Nigerian should lose their life at the hands of those sworn to protect them, reiterating that every life matters and must be protected.
According to him, “the reported action of the officer involved is condemnable, unacceptable, and completely inconsistent with the principles of justice and a civilized society.”
The statement which was signed by Hajia Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, Director, Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, quoted Ojukwu to have expressed grave concern over the recurring incidents of excessive use of force by law enforcement officers and called on the Nigeria Police Force to take urgent and decisive steps to address the issue.
He specifically urged the police authorities to subject officers deployed on special duties to periodic mental and psychological evaluations to ensure they are fit to carry arms and engage with civilians responsibly.
Dr. Ojukwu further called for the immediate disciplinary action against ASP Nuhu Usman in line with extant laws and police regulations.
He also emphasized the need for the Nigeria Police Force to fully implement the recommendations of the Commission’s Panel on Police Brutality as a necessary step toward meaningful reform and prevention of future violations.
“The Commission demands immediate arrest and a transparent investigation into the incident, dismissal of the officer involved, and swift prosecution in accordance with the law.
We hereby call for adequate compensation and justice for the family of the victim,” he stated.
He warned that justice delayed only deepens public distrust in state institutions and undermines confidence in law enforcement.
The Executive Secretary assured that the NHRC will continue to monitor the case closely and will persist in its advocacy for accountability, justice, and the protection of the fundamental rights of all Nigerians.
“Nigeria must never normalize brutality. Justice must speak louder than silence,” he concluded.
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