society
Some Lessons in Leadership for the Architects of Tomorrow
Some Lessons in Leadership for the Architects of Tomorrow.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
My Research about the Power of Ethical Leadership in Nation-Building.
A Call from History.
In the chronicles of African history, amidst the turbulence of post-colonial struggles and the shadows of corruption, there exist luminous episodes that stand as blueprints for transformative leadership. These stories are not mere anecdotes; they are moral compasses, urging us to reimagine governance as a sacred trust.
One such account, drawn from the annals of the 1970s, unveils a profound lesson in integrity, vision and national development. It is a story not only about TWO PRESIDENT’S but about TWO PATHS: one that reflects GENEROSITY and the other that demonstrates PURPOSE. Together, they offer timeless guidance for today’s leaders and the architects of tomorrow’s world.
A Tale of Two Presidents: Generosity Meets Purpose.
The year was 1973. General Mobutu Sese Seko, then-President of Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo), embarked on a state visit to Mauritania. At that time, Mauritania was one of the poorest countries in Africa, still grappling with the harsh realities of nationhood after its liberation from French colonial rule.
Leading this fledgling republic was President Moktar Ould Daddah, Mauritania’s first head of state. A man of modesty and simplicity, Moktar carried himself with quiet dignity. Yet, during the visit, Mobutu noticed something that struck him deeply. Over the course of three days of discussions and public appearances, Moktar wore the same suit.
For Mobutu, who was accustomed to the opulence of Parisian tailors and the pomp of presidential life, this was a startling revelation. His Mauritanian counterpart clearly lacked the resources to indulge in the luxuries befitting a head of state. Moved by this realization, Mobutu made a discreet gesture. He presented a check for $5 million to President Moktar’s secretary, accompanied by a note suggesting addresses of renowned Paris fashion houses. The intention was unmistakable: to help his host acquire a wardrobe that reflected the stature of a president.
A Gift Redirected: Prioritizing Nation Over Self.
What happened next, however, etched President Moktar’s name into the history books as a rare example of ethical leadership. When the check reached his hands, Moktar did not see it as a PERSONAL WINDFALL. Instead, he saw in it an OPPORTUNITY to ADDRESS one of Mauritania’s GREATEST CHALLENGES: the ACUTE SHORTAGE of TEACHERS.
Rather than splurge on fine clothing, he redirected the funds into the nation’s treasury. With that $5 million, Mauritania established and equipped the Higher School for Teachers Training, an institution that would become a cornerstone in the country’s fight against ILLITERACY and POVERTY.
This act was more than financial prudence. It was a bold declaration of values. Moktar made it clear that leadership is not about personal comfort but about the collective good. His choice reflected a conviction that education is the bedrock of national progress, the ONE INVESTMENT that yields GENERATIONAL DIVIDENDS.
Gratitude Etched in History.
Five years later, in 1978, Mobutu once again visited Mauritania on his way back from the United States. This time, something unexpected awaited him. The streets of Nouakchott were lined with banners and signs that read:
“Thank you, Zaire. Thank you, President Mobutu. Thank you for the gift.”
Perplexed, Mobutu turned to his host and asked why such messages adorned the capital. President Moktar then led him to the Teacher Training School and explained:
“This is your valuable gift. With the $5 million you gave five years ago, we built this institution to fight illiteracy and poverty. My people needed education not my personal extravagance.”
Mobutu, a man often criticized for his own excesses, was visibly moved. He embraced Moktar and admitted with a tone of regret:
“If only the rest of African leaders were like you, our continent would not be paralyzed by poverty, ignorance and underdevelopment.”
The True Moral Compass of Leadership.
The story of President Moktar Ould Daddah stands in stark contrast to the many African leaders who, cloaked in the rhetoric of patriotism, siphon national wealth for private indulgence. His humility and prioritization of collective progress over personal vanity set a timeless standard.
Moktar once explained his philosophy with refreshing candor:
“I draw my salary from the state treasury, so I am not working without compensation. That gift belonged to the Mauritanian people, not me. My appearance and clothing should reflect the reality of my people’s struggles. With education, we can conquer the barriers that hold us back.”
A Simplified Legacy of Service.
Even after leaving office, President Moktar maintained a life of simplicity. He passed away in 2003, leaving behind not palaces or secret accounts but a legacy of moral clarity. His residence (a modest three-room house) stood as a symbol of his disdain for luxury and his commitment to public service as a sacred trust.
This modest lifestyle amplified his credibility. It reminded the world that leadership is about stewardship, not ownership. Moktar’s story embodies a principle that must be restored in African governance: public service is a duty, not an entitlement.
The Challenge to Today’s Leaders.
This story is more than a HISTORICAL ANECDOTE; it is a mirror reflecting the moral choices confronting leaders today. It raises uncomfortable but necessary questions:
Do our leaders see power as a PLATFORM for SERVICE or a LICENSE for SELF-ENRICHMENT?
Do they measure success by the number of CARS in their CONVOYS or by the number of SCHOOLS and HOSPITALS they BUILD?
Do they embody the STRUGGLES of their PEOPLE, or do they INSULATE themselves in GLASS TOWERS far removed from REALITY?
For leaders who exploit the rhetoric of patriotism while pillaging their nations, Moktar’s story stands as a rebuke. For aspiring leaders, it is an invitation to emulate the virtues of selflessness, accountability and vision.
Modern Comparisons: Leadership in Our Time.
When we contrast Moktar’s legacy with modern realities, the lesson becomes even sharper. In Nigeria today, BILLIONS of NAIRA are squandered on LUXURY CONVOYS, PRESIDENTIAL PALACES and FOREIGN MEDICAL TRIPS, while PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES remain underfunded and doctors flee abroad. In South Africa, millions are wasted in corruption scandals like “STATE CAPTURE,” even as young people march for jobs and education.
Globally, we can see parallels. Leaders such as Nelson Mandela and Julius Nyerere chose modesty and service over personal enrichment. Mandela famously declared:
“Real leaders must be ready to sacrifice all for the freedom of their people.”
He lived those words, donating part of his salary and keeping his Soweto home even as president.
Similarly, Nyerere, affectionately called Mwalimu (the teacher), left office without riches but with dignity. He reminded us that:
“Leadership is not about power or privilege, it is about responsibility.”
On the economic front, leaders like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala continue to show that integrity is not a weakness in governance but a strength. As she often notes:
“Corruption is dangerous because it distorts priorities, diverts resources and destroys trust.”
In stark contrast, leaders like Mobutu himself, who amassed billions while Zaire collapsed or others who loot their nations under the guise of patriotism, serve as cautionary tales. Their wealth bought them fleeting comfort, but their legacies remain symbols of betrayal.
Building a Future Through Ethical Leadership.
Tomorrow’s leaders must recognize that the strength of a nation lies not in its mineral wealth or natural resources but in its people, its institutions and its commitment to justice and equity. Education remains the most potent weapon against poverty and inequality.
As President Moktar demonstrated, a single ethical decision can echo across generations. One redirected gift built an institution that produced thousands of teachers, each shaping the minds of future leaders, workers and citizens. From one school, a nation’s destiny was altered.
This is the power of ethical leadership. It transforms gifts into opportunities, resources into institutions and moments into legacies.
A Legacy to Embrace.
The story of Moktar Ould Daddah is a beacon for the architects of tomorrow’s world. It is a reminder that integrity, humility and vision are not outdated ideals but essential tools for nation-building.
As Africa continues to grapple with corruption, inequality and underdevelopment, leaders must look back to examples like Moktar’s and draw courage to chart a different path. His legacy tells us that simplicity is not weakness, that service is not servitude and that ethical choices (no matter how small) can reshape a nation’s future.
Let this story inspire leaders across the globe to act with courage, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the collective good. In the words of President Moktar himself:
“With education, we can defeat the plagues that hinder our progress.”
This, indeed, is an amazing legacy to truly embrace without biased intentions.
Ibadan Lights Up with Music and Culture as M12 Records Goes Live
It was a night of glitz, glamour, and good music in Ibadan as business mogul Olusola Badmus, popularly known as Embassy, officially unveiled his record label, M12 Records, with a star-studded listening party.
The event, which took place at Lighthouse Club, Akobo, Ibadan, on 1st October 2025, saw the launch of rising star Brainyboy’s debut album titled “Mr. Embassy.” Guests were thrilled with energetic performances from Brainyboy, who kept the crowd entertained with fresh sounds that reflected the unique identity of the label.
Speaking at the event, Olusola Badmus, who is the CEO of M12 Records, explained the vision behind the label. According to him, M12 Records is not just about making music but about creating a platform where artists are free to express themselves while also being given the right structure to succeed.
“For me, music has always been more than sound, it’s culture, it’s emotion, and it’s connection. M12 Records is about giving artists the freedom to create while also providing them the structure to succeed globally,” he said.
Registered in Nigeria, the United States, and the United Kingdom, M12 Records is already being positioned as a global brand that will bridge the gap between African creativity and international platforms.
The night also came with a special recognition as Olusola Badmus was presented with the “Best Grassroots Record Label” award by Yoruba Movie Gist Awards organizers, in appreciation of the label’s huge impact in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
With its mission clearly defined to discover raw talents, nurture them into world-class stars, and take African music global, M12 Records is already gaining attention as a home for originality and bold Afrobeats voices.
Fans and industry watchers are already predicting big things for the label and its artists. One thing is certain: this is just the beginning of something global.
Ajadi Storms Adamawa, Pledges to Back Only Credible Leaders in 2027
The political landscape of Adamawa State gained new energy on Independence Day as the Ajadi Rescue Movement (ARM) inaugurated its state chapter in Yola, declaring its readiness to make a difference in Nigeria’s democracy by “choosing leaders right” come 2027.
The inauguration, held at the Nurses’ House in Jimeta, Yola, attracted party faithful, grassroots representatives, and regional coordinators who described the event as “the beginning of a new era in the North-East.”
In his welcome address, the State Coordinator, Hon. Rilwan Idris Yahya, urged the 21 Local Government Area executives and state officers to embrace integrity, transparency, and accountability in discharging their responsibilities.
“We are not just building another political structure; we are building trust with the people. Our mission is simple: service must get to the grassroots, and leaders must emerge through the people’s will,” Yahya declared.
The Northern States Coordinator, Comrade Ibrahim Shuaibu, who travelled from afar to attend, stressed that the Ajadi Rescue Movement was beyond politics—it was a humanitarian platform seeking to empower Nigerians regardless of region, ethnicity, or creed.
“Ajadi Rescue Movement is a movement of hope. We have carried out humanitarian services across states, reaching vulnerable people, and the message is clear: Nigerians deserve leaders who understand service, not self-interest,” Shuaibu said.
“This Adamawa chapter must be the model. 2027 will be the year we show the nation that leaders can be chosen right, by the people and for the people.”
Goodwill messages flowed in from other stakeholders, further underlining the optimism in the air.
Speaking on behalf of the 21 LGA Coordinators, Hon. A.A. Mubarak, the State Secretary, pledged loyalty to the founder’s vision:
“Adamawa has been remembered, and we are grateful. Our task is to show by our actions that we can deliver on the promises made to the people. We will not fail.”
For the women’s wing, Ms Comfort Ndondo, Assistant Women’s Leader, described the initiative as a blessing for community development.
“When women are empowered and communities supported, society rises. That is why Ajadi Rescue Movement gives us hope—it is not politics as usual; it is about humanity,” she noted.
A special highlight came when Comrade Dabo Nuhu Muhammad, Taraba State Coordinator, delivered a brief presentation profiling the founder of the movement, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo. He described Ajadi as a visionary entrepreneur, community developer, and philanthropist whose lifelong ambition is to give back to his generation through leadership and service.
The Adamawa Central Coordinator, Mr Leviticus James, also expressed gratitude to participants for making the inauguration historic, while participants engaged in an interactive question-and-answer session that ended with renewed commitments to grassroots mobilisation.
Widespread interactions between the group and citizens across the state indicate that Adamawa’s chapter of the Ajadi Rescue Movement has positioned itself as a political force ahead of 2027.
President Tinubu’s enemies, anti- development agents after Wike’s giant strides – FCT CSOs
A formidable coalition of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has issued a robust defense of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, dismissing recent corruption allegations as a calculated smear campaign by political adversaries seeking to undermine President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The coalition, representing a broad spectrum of community advocates and development watchdogs, condemned the accusations as baseless attempts to discredit Wike’s unprecedented infrastructure achievements in Abuja.
The rebuttal responds to a statement by some groups which called for investigations by the EFCC, ICPC, CCB, NJC, and FIRS into claims of asset concealment, illicit enrichment, and fund diversions allegedly linked to Wike.
FCT CSOs, however, assert that these allegations are recycled falsehoods driven by detractors envious of Wike’s transformative projects, including revitalized roads, enhanced security, and accessible education, which have elevated the FCT’s status as a model capital.
Led by Dr. Philips Ayuba, Executive Coordinator of the FCT CSOs, the coalition emphasized Wike’s transparent leadership and verifiable contributions since assuming office in August 2023.
They urged anti-corruption agencies to resist pressure from politically motivated groups and focus on validating Wike’s impeccable financial records, which they claim fully align with Nigeria’s legal and ethical standards.
Dr. Philips Ayuba, addressing a press conference in Abuja, said: “These accusations are a deliberate assault by President Tinubu’s detractors—agents of retrogression who fear the monumental progress Wike has brought to the FCT.
“Wike has transformed Abuja into a beacon of development. These baseless claims of Florida properties or Ogoniland fund diversions are recycled lies, lacking a shred of evidence and aimed at derailing the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
Ayuba continued: “Wike’s asset declarations are open for scrutiny, and his family’s lawful investments predate his ministerial role. Allegations of improper land allocations are equally unfounded; The FCT CSOs stand firmly with Wike, demanding that anti-corruption agencies ignore this orchestrated distraction and investigate those funding these smears to destabilize Tinubu’s government.”
The coalition highlighted Wike’s alignment with Tinubu’s vision, noting that his projects reflect the administration’s commitment to equitable development.
The CSOs dismissed claims by figures like Senator Ireti Kingibe, who alleged improper land allocations, as personal grudges unsupported by evidence.
Dr. Ayuba added: “Wike’s record is an open book—every project, every expenditure, is meticulously documented and audited. Claims of impropriety, whether about foreign assets or past Rivers State projects, are fabrications from those threatened by his efficiency.
“The FCT CSOs have mobilized over 12,000 signatures in support of Wike, urging the EFCC, ICPC, and CCB to focus on real corruption, not political vendettas.
“We call on Nigerians to reject these lies and celebrate a minister whose work has restored pride in our capital.”
Ayuba added: “This campaign against Wike is an attack on President Tinubu’s vision for a renewed Nigeria. The FCT’s transformation under Wike—better roads, safer streets, empowered communities—mirrors the President’s commitment to progress.
“We will not allow faceless detractors to tarnish this legacy. Our coalition will hold town halls across the FCT to amplify the truth, ensuring that Wike’s achievements shine brighter than these baseless accusations.”
-
Politics3 months agoNigeria Is Not His Estate: Wike’s 2,000‑Hectare Scandal Must Shake Us Awake
-
society6 months agoBroken Promises and Broken Backs: The ₦70,000 Minimum Wage Law and the Betrayal of Nigerian Workers
-
society5 months agoOGUN INVESTS OVER ₦2.25 BILLION TO BOOST AQUACULTURE
-
celebrity radar - gossips5 months agoFrom ₦200 to ₦2 Million: Davido’s Barber Reveals Jaw-Dropping Haircut Fee