Vice-Chancellor of Ahman Pategi University, Patigi, Kwara State, Professor Mahfouz Adedimeji, has urged Nigerians and state governors to accept responsibility and stop the blame game regarding the high cost of living in the country. Adedimeji emphasized the need for governors and Nigerians to play their part in improving the economy and seeking solutions to the current economic hardships.
Speaking at the public lecture to mark the first anniversary of Professor Olayinka Karim as the Vice-Chancellor of Fountain University, Osogbo, Osun State, Adedimeji highlighted that a servant leadership style would help tackle the current challenges facing leadership roles across the country.
According to him, “Servant leadership is applicable in the Nigerian system and it is possible. It was done before and it can also be done now; it only requires courage of character, sacrifice, empathy, discipline, and prioritizing the needs of Nigerians over and above the needs of those who are in power.
“We know the president is making a lot of efforts in recent times, and we know that if anything will be good, we will experience a certain level of discomfort in the beginning. I want to appeal to our leaders to attend to the needs of the people first; many people are indeed suffering, and our governors must take a bold step to show people that they care.
“I want to urge Nigerians to accept responsibility; we should avoid the blame game, do what you can at your level. Everybody is a leader; the concept of leadership is at the doorstep of everybody. Before you look at Abuja, look at what is happening in your house, look inward. Nigerians are the ones looting palliatives, which tells greatly on our character. Let us think of what we can do and work out solutions. Nigerians should also change themselves before we blame the leaders; they are a reflection of society.”
Earlier in her address, Professor Kareem disclosed that she was motivated to pursue her Vice-Chancellorship ambition because of the influence of the likes of Professor Grace Alele-Williams, who was the first female Vice-Chancellor in the country.
She added that her passion for service was responsible for her achievements within 12 months in office, pledging to do more in a bid to make Fountain University a global brand.
Source: https://globalpatriotnews.com/don-advocates-shared-responsibility-servant-leadership-as-way-out-of-nigerias-economic-challenges/