ABUJA/Nigeria: Students of Maris Secondary School, Amachai, Okpanam, in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, on Thursday participated in a one-day Leadership Clinic organised by the Abuja Leadership Centre in collaboration with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Centre of Excellence in Leadership at the University of Abuja.
The event, which drew participation from 20 secondary schools across public and private institutions within Delta State’s capital territory, saw ten representatives from Maris Secondary School joining the initiative aimed at nurturing future leaders.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Mr Daniel Akiri, Director of Finance and Accounts at the State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, commended the organisers for their efforts in empowering students. He pledged the state government’s support to expand similar training opportunities to more students across the region. “The lessons learnt here today should be put into practice,” Oborevwori urged, highlighting the programme’s significance in fostering a healthier, more united nation.
Former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Elder Godsday Orubebe, delivered a keynote lecture titled “Integrity and Personal Development,” emphasising the need for youths to adopt a culture of honesty and integrity as a cornerstone for personal growth and leadership. “Honesty is the foundation that builds trust. A person of integrity cultivates strong relationships and inspires confidence. These qualities are essential for the leaders of tomorrow,” Orubebe said.
He stressed that addressing leadership challenges in the country requires instilling the right values in young people early. “The next 10 years will see today’s students assuming leadership roles. It is crucial to nurture their potential now to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past,” he added, calling for more training sessions to reach a broader audience of young Nigerians.
Prof. Phillip Afaha, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Director of the Abuja Leadership Centre, represented by Dr Eugene Okolocha, underscored the programme’s mission to “catch them young.” He noted that this marked the 14th edition of the leadership clinic, aimed at equipping students with virtues, qualities, and attributes essential for effective leadership and national security.
The clinic featured lectures by various resource persons, including Mr Bright Igbako on Patriotism and Citizenship, Mr David Akpimegin on Youth and Selfless Leadership, Dr Kevwe Ejemeyovwi on Youth Leadership and New Media, and Mr Richard Odibo on Peace and Conflict Resolution.
During interactive sessions, students raised critical questions about the current state of leadership in the country, expressing concerns over the exclusion of youths from political processes and the lack of inspiring examples from present leaders.
The event culminated in the presentation of certificates to participating schools, followed by group photographs with the organisers and facilitators.
This leadership clinic has not only provided students with practical knowledge but also ignited a discourse on the importance of integrity and patriotism in shaping the future of Nigeria.
