At Book Launch, Experts Say Young Leaders Need Tools, Not Applause

By Hamidat Yahaya, Abuja

Stakeholders in governance, academia and public service have called for stronger leadership development frameworks for young Nigerians, stressing the need for practical tools rather than mere recognition.

The call was made recently in Lagos during the launch of Leading at 27: How Young Leaders Can Change the World, authored by Seyi Adisa.

The event drew prominent figures, including the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole; the Ambassador-designate to Austria, Florence Ajimobi; Senator Abdulfatai Buhari; the Vice Chancellor of First Technical University, Ibadan, Sola Ajayi; and former Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Toye Arulogun.

Speakers at the event identified inadequate preparation as a major factor limiting the effectiveness of emerging leaders in the country.

Chairperson of the occasion, Florence Ajimobi, said many young leaders attain positions of influence without the necessary foundation of character and responsibility, leading to weak impact and declining public trust.

She described the book as a timely contribution to addressing Nigeria’s leadership challenges, noting that it offers guidance for a generation with strong potential but inconsistent leadership values.

In his remarks, Adisa said the book was inspired by interactions with young professionals facing burnout and frustration in public service. He noted that many capable youths are placed in complex roles without adequate guidance or structured support.

According to him, the publication is designed as a practical guide, providing frameworks and tools to help young leaders navigate real-world challenges.

Adisa also unveiled GLANCE (Governors, Leadership and National Civic Engagement), a campus-based initiative aimed at training 10,000 young leaders across Nigerian universities through mentorship and peer-learning structures.

Speaking at the event, Jumoke Oduwole commended the author’s contributions to public service, highlighting his growth and commitment to leadership development.

Also speaking, governance expert Ini Abimbola said Nigeria’s leadership gap is largely due to insufficient preparation rather than a lack of talent, stressing the need for mentorship structures and institutional support.

Leadership expert Fela Durotoye urged a shift in mindset, noting that leadership should be seen as a personal responsibility rather than a future aspiration.

Other speakers, including Ayobami Tunde, commended the author’s impact in both public and private sectors.

Participants at the event agreed that Nigeria’s leadership challenge requires deliberate investment in capacity building, with a focus on equipping young people with the skills and structures needed to lead effectively.