Transformational leadership: A catalyst for change, growth, prosperity- Prof. Nebo

     By Babs Oyetoro

Former minister of power and current vice chancellor of University of Niger, Prof. Chinedu Ositadinmma Nebo has posited that a transformational and impacful leadership will suffice in a failing world saying it is the catalyst for change, economic growth and prosperity.

Prof. Nebo delivered the lecture titled: Transormational and Impactful Leadership In A Failing World at the distinguished personality lecture held at the Anchor University, Lagos in honour of Prof. Steven Timipa Odi-Owe, currently doubled as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the institution.

According to him: “We live in a world of paradox. We have unprecedented technological advances yet growing global despair. We have more connectedness than ever, yet deeper division.

“The planet groans under the weight of human neglect, institutions falter, and the moral compass seems to spin aimlessly in many arenas of leadership. It is in this context that true leaders– transformational and impactful ones must rise”.

The former Oye Ekiti vice chancellor averred that the world was failing in several dimensions adding that economies callapsed under the strain of inequality, corruption, selfish politics, and sheer ineptitude.

He stressed further that democracies struggled under the weight of disinformation and distrust even as climate change threatened our collective future noting that in such a climate, leadership was not optional but essential.

He continued: “What the world needs now is not more control, domination, or shallow charisma. It needs leaders who are are willing to be transformed themselves and who, through that transformation, ignite change in others”.

He was apt to say that ‘Nigeria is in dire need of  transformational and impactful leaders who understand these things and are determined to transform the society’.

“Transformational leadership is not mere about casting a vision or setting big goals. It is about inner change that preceds outer impact. It is rooted in integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to serve others”, he stated further.

He, however, underscored the fact that transformational leadership ‘comes at a cost’ saying ‘it demands sacrifice, resilience’ but was quick to add that it was necessary catalyst for progress and development.

“If you are in a position of leadership–be it in government, business, education, faith, or family–you have been enthrusted with a sacred opportunity.

“The world does not need more spectators; it needs catalysts, healers, builders, and touchbearers”, he noted.

Meanwhile, the Anchor university vice chancellor, Prof. Samuel Bandele commended his colleague- Prof. Nebo for doing justice to the topic of discussion saying the impacful lecture will no doubt contribute to national development and also broaden the knowledge of all the participants.

It will be noted that aside from the lecture the event was made more colourful as the both academic and non-academic staff celebrated Prof. Steven Odi-Owei through their glowing tributes while the school orchestra added value to the epoch making annual lecture.