‘Nigeria Central To Africa’s Economic, Demographic Landscape’

The federal government has said Nigeria is central to Africa’s economic and demographic landscape.
The deputy director, International Development Funds in the Federal Ministry of Finance, Ibrahim Abubakar Matazu, spoke at the launch of the African Capacity Building Foundation’s Leadership Excellence in Africa’s Public Service (LEAPS) Programme for directorate-level officers in the country.
Matazu said the programme was not just a training initiative but a clarion call to redefine public sector leadership across the continent.

“In Nigeria, a nation central to Africa’s economic and demographic landscape, the demand for visionary, innovative, and ethical leaders has never been greater. Our public service is the backbone of governance, tasked with delivering policies and services that uplift millions.

“The LEAPS Programme is designed to empower directorate-level officers like you with the skills, mindset, and strategic acumen to navigate complex challenges and catalyse sustainable development.
“What sets LEAPS apart is its focus on fostering transformative leadership that goes beyond technical expertise.

Drawing from the success of its inaugural cohort, launched in Zimbabwe in November 2024, LEAPS emphasises competencies in leadership, strategic thinking, and innovation—qualities essential for addressing Nigeria’s unique priorities, from economic diversification to inclusive governance.

“This program aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, equipping leaders to champion a prosperous and resilient Africa.”

Mr. Bakary Kone, Senior Advisor to the Executive Secretary for Strategy and Partnerships, said that when the Enhancing Leadership and Governance in Public Financial Management in Africa, ELG-PFM, was launched on the sidelines of the African Development Bank Annual Meetings in Nairobi in May, questions were raised about the program’s survival.

He said since November 2024, LEAPS has taken root across five countries—Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Senegal, and Zimbabwe—where 89 senior public officials completed a six-month transformation journey that concluded in June 2025.

“The feedback has been unanimous and inspiring: Leadership mindsets are shifting. Institutions are evolving. Impact is happening.

“And now, with great pride, we mark the official arrival of LEAPS in Nigeria—home to every one African out of 6, Africa’s economic engine, and a critical player in shaping the continent’s public sector future.

On his part, Adil Ababou, Senior Program Officer, Gates Foundation, said the programme is to ensure that the public financial system can work better for the people, more efficiently, and avoid wastages

He said, “It is about ensuring that the public financial system can work better for the people, more efficiently, and avoid wastage. Therefore, this is really what this contributes to.