African Leaders Must Create Opportunities For Others – Duru

The founder of Face of Congeniality Nigeria (FOCN) Leadership Academy, Hon. Princess Obianuju Duru, has said African leadership should be measured by the opportunities leaders create for others, rather than the positions they occupy.

Duru spoke at the 2026 YOU Inspire Leadership Conference in Abuja on Monday.

She urged African leaders to translate inspiration into practical action through self-discipline, mentorship and purposeful leadership.

“Leadership should be measured by the positive impact leaders make, rather than the positions they occupy,” she said.

Duru also described the palace as more than a symbol of power, status or access, saying it represented preparation, character and the responsibility to use influence to create opportunities for others.

She identified self-governance, mentorship, purposeful relationships and personal development as requirements for leadership preparation.

The conference brought together business leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs and young people to discuss leadership, influence, personal development and Africa’s future.

Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke, PhD, delivered the keynote address, titled “Leadership Starts With Self: The Mastery of Self-Governance.”

Luke said effective leadership begins with personal discipline, accountability and responsible decision-making, adding that individuals must first govern themselves before leading others.

Dr Teresa Ekaete Nwachukwu also spoke on developing people, building effective teams and establishing systems that can continue to deliver results beyond an individual leader’s tenure.

Participants discussed public service, enterprise, responsible influence and the role of young Africans in shaping the continent’s future.

FOCN Leadership Academy also presented its work in leadership development and community engagement.

The conference ended with a call on emerging leaders to apply the knowledge gained and use their influence to create opportunities for others.