The Director of the Abuja Leadership Centre (ALC), a TETFund Center of Excellence in Public Governance and Leadership at the University of Abuja, Professor Philip Dahida, has emphasized the crucial role education plays in shaping leaders, which remains a significant barrier to the development of Nigeria and Africa.

Speaking during an orientation programme organized for postgraduate students at ALC on Saturday, July 26, 2025, in preparation for the 2025/2026 academic session (Course 7), Prof. Dahida reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and the training of future leaders.

He attributed the underdevelopment in Nigeria and many African countries to poor leadership, which stems from a lack of training and preparedness among those in positions of authority. He added that the aim of the Center is to promote a process of leadership formation that will enable Africa to adopt the right leadership through knowledge acquisition.

Prof. Dahida urged the students to take their programme seriously and dedicate themselves to their studies, assuring them that the institution and its staff would do their utmost to equip them with the necessary knowledge for effective leadership without unnecessary delays.

He noted that the postgraduate programmes currently offered at the institute include Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Policy and Strategic Studies, Public Governance and Leadership, and Military Studies, along with plans for expansion and the integration of diploma programmes.

“Is the lack of leadership the reason why Nigeria and other African countries are not developing? We can find the answers in what is happening in our environment. Consider the Asian Tigers—Malaysia, which came to Nigeria in the 1970s to harvest palm fruits, and see what they have achieved today. The same is true for Thailand. When Singapore separated from Malaysia in 1963, Lee Kuan Yew managed only three seaports; look at what they have accomplished now.

“It is clear that we have a leadership problem, and the purpose of this Center is to foster a process of leadership formation that will guide Nigerians and Africans toward effective leadership models that promote development.

“This Center is here to provide the foundational training for leaders and offer insights into the principles of leadership in Africa, including Nigeria. As we progress, we will also introduce models and theories that are home-grown.

“We have graduated notable students, including former Niger Delta Minister Godsday Orubebe, Gen. Paul Boroh (Rtd), and a current serving state governor. As for you students, we are here to support you, and you will graduate on time,” Prof. Dahida assured.

Gen. Lawrence Onoja (Rtd), one of the lecturers at the Center, congratulated and commended the students for their pursuit of further knowledge, stating, “There is no limit to learning for humans.”

While commending the leadership and staff of the Center for their essential role in shaping the nation’s future leaders, the former Military Administrator acknowledged that the older generation has often failed in leadership roles. He urged the new students to take full advantage of this learning opportunity to change the current narrative.

After the orientation, one of the new students, Mr. Usman Alfa, who is pursuing a doctoral degree in Public Governance and Leadership, shared that he was motivated to enroll in the programme due to the obvious leadership failures that have plagued the country, hindering national development.

Alfa remarked that leadership is a significant challenge in Nigeria, the continent’s most populous country, and across Africa. He expressed confidence in the capabilities of the institute, its lecturers, and staff to help students reach their potential.

He urged Nigerian leaders to enhance their knowledge and understanding of leadership before assuming leadership roles.

“There is a critical need for effective leadership in this country, at every level—from national to state and local levels. I’m pleased that the Center focuses on leadership that has relevance across Africa.

“The orientation today was marvelous and inspiring, and I felt motivated by all the professors’ insights. I look forward to gaining the experience, exposure, and comprehensive knowledge that this training will provide.

“My advice to our leaders is to invest in their own development, improve their leadership skills, and prepare themselves to lead others effectively,” Alfa concluded.

Other scholars and lecturers present at the event included Prof. Joseph Golwa, Prof. Tyoor Tever, Prof. Adewale Banjo, and Dr. Eze Ukauwa.