Dear Leader,
I trust this meets you in pursuit of wisdom.
Chinua Achebe wrote an interesting book that lies on my book shelf titled “The Trouble with Nigeria”. In it he said and I agree that “the trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership. There is nothing wrong with the land or climate or water or air. The Nigerian problem is the unwillingness or inability of its leaders to rise to the responsibility; to the challenge of personal example which are the hallmarks of true leadership”.
In subsequent pages and context, Achebe highlighted critical things such as:
- Poor Character of Leaders in Offices
- Tribalistic
- Lack of Intellectual Rigour
- Zero Patriotism
There were many more ideas Achebe highlighted in the text. The book is a very old book written in 1983 but decades later, the truth still confronts us. Yet, it also places a profound responsibility on a new generation: to lead differently, and to lead better.
Much ado about the troubles.
Who is going to fix them? That’s where you come in.
How are they going to be fixed? That’s where you come in.
When are they going to be fixed? That’s where you come in.
No problem will be solved by talking about it but by solving it. And it takes a higher level of intelligence to solve a problem than it takes to create it.
That is what leadership is about – fixing the troubles with Nigeria. Where should you start?
1. Leadership Begins with Character
Leadership is not a title; it is a test of character.
Achebe emphasized that the quality of leadership must be rooted in integrity and a genuine commitment to transformation. Beyond rhetoric, leadership demands a clear, radical programme of social and economic reorganization—one that is thoughtful, people-centered, and consistently pursued.
As a leader, your private discipline will always define your public impact.
2. Rise Above Tribalism
Nigeria cannot move forward if its leaders are trapped in divisions. It is seen all over X (formerly Twitter).
One of the most practical shifts we must embrace is redefining identity — from “state of origin” to “state of residence.” This is more than administrative; it is philosophical. It speaks to unity, fairness, and a shared sense of belonging.
Leadership must be inclusive, not selective. Nation-building requires that competence and contribution outweigh background and bias.
3. Cultivate Intellectual Rigour
Leadership without thinking is dangerous. We must move towards evidence-based leadership.
The complexity of Nigeria’s challenges demands leaders who can think critically, analyze deeply, and make informed decisions. Intellectual laziness has no place in leadership.
Read widely. Question assumptions. Engage with ideas. The future will not be shaped by loud voices, but by clear minds.
4. Practice Patriotism
Patriotism is demonstrated.
It is easy to speak about change; it is harder to live it. True patriotism is reflected in everyday choices: doing what is right when no one is watching, serving with sincerity, and putting national interest above personal gain.
The Nigeria we desire will be built by those who act, not those who only speak.
Go get your voters card ahead of the 2027 elections. We have a nation to fix.
5. Merit Over Mediocrity
A nation that rewards mediocrity cannot progress.
Young leaders must insist on excellence — first in themselves, and then in the systems they influence. Appointments, opportunities, and recognition must be based on merit, not familiarity or favoritism.
Excellence is essential.
6. Model Self-Discipline
Leadership is observed before it is heard.
Simple actions carry powerful messages:
Being early to meetings.
Avoiding unnecessary displays of power.
Living quietly, but working impactfully.
Discipline communicates seriousness. It builds trust. It sets the tone for others to follow.
7. Vision, Integrity, and Execution
Vision gives direction.
Integrity builds credibility.
Execution delivers results.
A few leaders have ideas. Fewer have the discipline to execute them effectively. The difference between promise and progress lies in consistent, focused action.
Achebe admonished that Nigeria can change today If she discovers leaders who have the will, the ability and the vision. But it is the duty of enlightened citizens to lead the way in their discovery and to create an atmosphere conducive to the emergence of such leaders.
Leaders come from amongst us. Nigeria does not lack potential. It lacks a critical mass of leaders who are willing to embody these values consistently.
This is where you come in.
Fixing the troubles with Nigeria is not an abstract ambition — it is a personal responsibility. It begins with how you think, how you act, and how you lead, wherever you are.
This is part of the reason we launched the Early Leaders Fellowship — a 10-week student leadership programme designed to raise a new generation of leaders who think differently, act responsibly, and lead with purpose.
The fellowship is not just about learning; it is about transformation. It is about building leaders who will choose merit over mediocrity, unity over division, and action over rhetoric.
If Nigeria must change, its leaders must change first. And if its leaders must change, that journey must begin early.
Help us reach Student Leaders around Delta State on this fellowship. Application is currently on and will end April 30, 2026.
Application link: www.greatowete.com/fellowship
I’m rooting for you,
– Great