By Sumaila Ogbaje
Retired Maj.-Gen. Obidah Ethan, on Monday, called for collective action by addressing economic inequality and social injustice to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
Ethan, a member Board of Trustees, Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peace Keeping Centre (MLAILPKC), made the call at the inauguration of Leadership and National Cohesion (LNC) Course 2/2024 in Abuja.
The course is organised by MLAILPK in collaboration with the United Nation Development Programme (UNDP) and the Japanese Government.
He said that nations lacking national cohesion would have social fragmentation, a weakened sense of national identity and most times a struggling economy.
“Some of the challenges faced today, from insecurity and economic inequality to social injustice require effective leadership and collective action,” he said.
“These pillars are critical in fostering a sense of shared identity, promoting social inclusion and addressing the diverse needs and aspirations of our citizens.
“Effective leadership provides the vision, direction and guidance necessary to navigate the complexities of modern society,” he said.
The retired general said that effective leadership inspired and empowered citizens to work together towards a common goal and promotes a culture of accountability and good governance.
He reiterated that Nigeria’s vast diversity remain a valuable asset and should be a strategic advantage to make the citizenry more resilient and innovative towards building a prosperous nation.
According to him, national cohesion on the other hand is the glue that holds the fabrics of a nation together and the bond that unites the people in spite of clear diversity.
“Therefore, as future leaders, you have critical role to play in promoting the peace, stability and development in your various establishments and organizations.
“You must imbibe the culture of good leadership and be the agent of national cohesion”.
The Commandant of MLAILPKC, Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, said the conduct of the course demonstrated the strategic investment in the development of effective leaders and promotion of peace and stability in Nigeria.
Adedoja reiterated that effective leadership and national cohesion were elements that drive progress and prosperity in a nation.
He added that their absence could lead to stagnation, division and instability hindering a nation’s ability to achieve its full potential.
These factors, according to him, informed the decision of the centre to develop capacity of the participants to drive positive change for a united and more prosperous nation.
“As leaders, you have a critical role to play in uniting and fostering a sense of shared identity among the people and must recognize that diversity is strength, not weakness.
“It is aimed at building your capacity to lead with integrity, communicate with clarity and conviction as well as build strong relationship with others,” he said.
The commandant said the course would also provide participants with the comprehensive understanding of concept and qualities of a good leader.
He added that there was the need for mentoring as well as roles of leaders in harnessing the diverse cultures in Nigeria to ensure national cohesion.
“At the end of this course, participants will be empowered to impact positive changes and contribute meaningfully towards enhancing peace, security and safety of the citizenry in Nigeria and the African region,” he added. (NAN)
