Leaders across all sectors of the Nigerian economy, particularly those in political positions, have been called upon to mirror the transparency, integrity, and modest lifestyle of the late former President Umaru Yar’Adua. Prof. Roland Otaru (SAN), the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Edo State, made the appeal during the third President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Leadership Award and Honour Night held in Abuja on Friday. Speaking as the chairman of the event, which was themed "Recognising Excellence in Leadership," Otaru described the late president as a resilient figure who stayed true to the cultural values of the nation. “Some leaders are born, while some develop leadership traits. Yar’Adua was a born leader. He lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation,” Otaru stated. He further noted that the late leader was a champion of national unity and religious tolerance whose legacy continues to be felt across the federation.
The Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Prof. Abdullahi Ribadu, described Yar’Adua as a dedicated servant-leader whose rare humility set him apart from many other officials. Ribadu likened the late president's short but impactful tenure to that of Murtala Mohammed, observing that while Nigeria still possesses capable leaders, “unfortunately, good leaders do not stay long. We have leaders who are arrogant; Yar’Adua was the opposite.” Adding to the tributes, Dr Phil Okonkwo, the Managing Consultant of Lonvenza Specialist and Wellness Centre, emphasized that Yar’Adua’s leadership was defined by discipline and restraint rather than the mere assertion of power. Okonkwo highlighted the late president’s commitment to the rule of law and accountability even when it was politically difficult. “Yar’Adua embraced transparency by publicly declaring his assets, and he pursued dialogue over conflict, bringing stability to the Niger Delta,” he said.
Representing the President of the Global Initiative for Leadership Success, Mr Sunnie Chukumele, retired Maj. Gen. Abubakar Mamman explained that the ceremony served as a reflection on visionary leadership and service to humanity. He asserted that true leadership is assessed by its impact and the ability to uplift communities. “Leadership is not measured merely by position or power. True leadership is measured by impact, by the ability to inspire others, uplift communities, strengthen institutions, promote unity and leave society better than it was found,” Mamman remarked. He concluded that celebrating such integrity and competence is vital for national transformation and for encouraging responsible citizenship among future generations.
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