Key Takeaways
- Former VP Osinbajo called on African leaders to address hardship and economic emancipation through people-centred governance.
- He stressed that leadership's true value lies in responding to citizens' needs, fostering accountability, and creating opportunities.
- Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin highlighted the importance of effective government-citizen communication for building trust.
- Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri announced plans to establish a foundation to support the less privileged after leaving office.
YOLA, ADAMAWA STATE – Former Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, has issued a powerful call to action for African leaders, urging them to confront the pressing issues of hardship, hunger, and the quest for economic emancipation facing their populations. Speaking on Tuesday in Yola, Adamawa State, Professor Osinbajo delivered a thought-provoking public lecture titled “Democracy and Development: The Imperative of People-Centred Governance,” as part of celebrations marking Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri's 59th birthday.
Professor Osinbajo unequivocally stated that governance must transcend the mere occupation of public office. In his view, leadership achieves its most profound meaning and impact when it actively responds to the needs of the people, champions accountability, strengthens national unity, and diligently creates opportunities for citizens to lead better, more fulfilling lives. This philosophy underscores a shift from traditional power dynamics to a more empathetic and service-oriented approach.
The former Vice President took the opportunity to commend Governor Fintiri for his exemplary leadership and significant development efforts within Adamawa State. He noted that the governor’s impressive profile and accomplishments have garnered considerable attention and recognition far beyond the state's borders. According to Osinbajo, the ultimate measure of leadership's value is its tangible impact on people's lives and the lasting contributions it makes to society's progress and well-being.
Adding to the discourse, the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, who attended as the special guest of honour, emphasized the critical importance of effective communication between the government and its populace. Senator Jibrin observed that transparent and open communication channels are vital for building mutual understanding, strengthening public confidence, and enabling citizens to better appreciate government policies and programmes. This fosters a more engaged and supportive citizenry, crucial for democratic stability and development.
Senator Jibrin also lauded Governor Fintiri’s dedicated efforts in advancing Adamawa State’s infrastructure and urged residents to continue their unwavering support for initiatives designed to propel the state forward. Such collaborative spirit, he noted, is essential for sustainable growth.
In response, Governor Fintiri expressed profound gratitude to Almighty Allah for the gift of life and the invaluable opportunity to serve the people of Adamawa State in various capacities. A significant announcement made during the occasion was the governor’s plan to establish the Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri Foundation after his tenure in office concludes. This foundation, he explained, will serve as a vehicle to sustain his commitment to assisting the less privileged through scholarships and other forms of vital assistance for vulnerable members of society, ensuring a lasting legacy of service.
Why This Matters
The calls from Professor Osinbajo and Senator Jibrin underscore a critical need for empathetic, accountable, and communicative leadership across Africa, particularly as nations grapple with complex socio-economic challenges. Governor Fintiri's commitment to establishing a post-office foundation further highlights a growing trend among leaders to ensure their impact extends beyond political tenure, fostering long-term societal development and support for the most vulnerable citizens.