Gowon Urges Leaders to Emulate Yar’Adua’s Ethical Leadership

Gowon Urges Leaders to Emulate Yar’Adua’s Ethical Leadership

Former Head of State, retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon, has called upon the nation’s leaders to adopt the transparent and people-oriented leadership style epitomized by late President Umaru Yar`Adua.

Speaking at the inaugural Umaru Yar’Adua International Leadership Conference and Awards in Abuja, organized by the Global Initiative for Leadership Success, Gowon emphasized the crucial role of morality and ethics in governance for sustainable development.

Reflecting on his collaboration with Yar’Adua during the latter’s tenure as governor of Katsina state, Gowon credited Yar’Adua’s swift governance response for the eradication of Guinea worm, citing it as an example of effective leadership.

Commending Yar’Adua’s establishment of the Justice Muhammed Uwais Electoral Reforms aimed at curbing electoral malpractice, Gowon highlighted the late president’s commitment to ethical governance.

Retired Maj.-Gen. Abdullahi Mamman, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the initiative, echoed Gowon’s sentiments, praising Yar’Adua’s leadership qualities as “sterling” and “legendary,” particularly noting his economic stewardship and societal stability.

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State also underscored the importance of supporting governmental efforts for smooth operations, lauding Yar’Adua’s anti-corruption initiatives and transparent governance.

Professor Mike Ikupolati, CEO of Global Intellectual Consult, emphasized the need for merit-based appointments over tribalism, stressing the significance of strong institutions and public-private partnerships in national development.

Alhaji Majeed Dahiru, CEO of ORASCOM Properties Ltd., lamented the dearth of integrity-driven political leadership in Nigeria, attributing it to the nation’s developmental setbacks.

Notably, Governors Alia, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state, and Babagana Zulum of Borno were honoured with awards for their exemplary leadership during the event.

The conference served as a platform for dialogue on ethical leadership and governance, with attendees rallying behind the call to uphold the ethical standards set by late President Umaru Yar’Adua.