Africa is projected to account for 40% of all children born worldwide by the 2040s. Dr. Fola Aina, a leadership, security and development expert, is paving the way for the next generation of change-makers. With a diverse educational background and extensive experience, he is mentoring young professionals to focus on leadership in policy decision-making.

The next generation of Africans will reshape the continent – and its relationship with the rest of the world – with its energy, creativity, and ideas. Dr Fola Aina is a young professional and international security analyst and researcher. He completed a second Masters’ degree in African Studies at the African Studies Centre, University of Oxford, in 2017, having earlier obtained a Masters’ degree in International Development Policy from Seoul National University, South Korea in 2013. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. He obtained a PhD in Leadership Studies with reference to security and development, from the School of Global Affairs, King’s College London.

His research interests include leadership in national security policy decision making, international security and grand strategy, with a regional focus on the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin. He has worked as an Independent Consultant for the Woodrow Wilson International Centre for Scholars’ Africa Programme, Washington DC, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), London and the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), London to mention a few.

He shares his insights on the Nigerian state and the keys to a prosperous nation.

You have always encouraged young people to contribute to nation-building. In your opinion, what aspects do you believe are not being handled correctly in Nigeria?

Young Nigerians possess a strong desire to contribute to the development of their nation, but often lack the necessary experience and leadership skills to make a significant impact. Programs like the Dr Fola Aina Fellowship aim to address this critical gap by providing comprehensive mentorship and leadership development opportunities to young Nigerians between the ages of 21 and 35. Through this fellowship, participants will gain valuable skills, knowledge, and networks that empower them to become effective leaders, driving positive change and fostering growth, prosperity, good governance, and peace across Nigeria.

How do you view the current state of education in Nigeria and what changes do you think could enhance it? In light of the growing population of Africa’s youth.

Education in Nigeria must be reformed to stay relevant and align with modern career trends. It’s crucial to develop educational systems that can cultivate the skilled professionals necessary for advancing national development. Starting in September 2024, the Fola Aina Scholars Programme will welcome 10 new scholars, providing them with educational grants that support their studies through to the completion of their undergraduate degrees. These scholars will also engage in exclusive educational activities and programs designed to enhance their learning experience.

As a Nigerian living abroad, do you believe that the growing popularity of Japa among young people will contribute to our development efforts in the long run?

The Japa phenomenon, or trend as you may call it, carries both a national price tag and personal expenses. The prospects it holds are uncertain, hinging on the varied experiences individuals encounter as time unfolds. However, I am optimistic that the Japa movement will prove advantageous in numerous respects. This is because a significant portion of the youth who have ventured abroad have secured globally recognized academic qualifications, accessed opportunities that were elusive in their homeland, and drawn motivation from the fresh surroundings they’ve embraced.

In your view, what is the Nigerian dream?

The Nigerian dream is a function of the collective. A Nigeria that holds the promise of fair and equal opportunities for all. A Nigeria where the son or daughter of a nobody can aspire to become somebody, not because of who they know, but because of the their hard work, resilience and an enabling environment.

What factors do you think can foster nation-building among Nigerians of all ages, classes, ethnicities, and religions?

Patriotism – loyalty to country and devotion to its progress. Justice – upholding the rule of law and upright living. Leadership – selfless service to the nation. And, Education – acquiring relevant insight and skills for nation building. These are some of the ideals that will be discussed at the Dr Fola Aina Annual Colloquium on Youth, Leadership and Nation Building later in December 2024.

What message do you think young people should be informed about regarding the current state of affairs in the country?

Young people must understand that nation building is not a solo effort. It requires the collective expertise and contributions of diverse stakeholders with shared passion and purpose. They must also recognize that Nigeria is a very diverse country with energetic and passionate youths. We must embrace our diversity as a strength and an opportunity for harnessing a broad set of skills, knowledge and resources.

You take great pride in being a mentor for the future leaders. Could you please share your approach to guiding and nurturing the younger generation?

My approach to guiding and nurturing the younger generation is through evidence-based models for leadership development. Being a Mandela Washington Fellow, I have firsthand experience of leadership development from a global standpoint, which informs the approach of the Dr. Fola Aina Fellowship. The fellowship will bring together 20 young leaders for a comprehensive leadership program that is designed to build skills and empower Fellows to lead in their respective sectors and communities. The fellowship includes a six weeks leadership development experience, a colloquium on youth, leadership and nation building, volunteering activities and networking opportunities with leaders in business, nonprofit, governance and academia.

Additionally, I would like to know your thoughts on the impact you have on the youth in Nigeria.

Over the last five years, I have provided mentorship to a selected cohort of young people who have advanced in their careers and developed their leadership abilities. I also daily speak to over 150,000 young people through social media, sharing leadership nuggets and inspiring them to higher ideals.

What factors do you think can foster nation-building among Nigerians of all ages, classes, ethnicities, and religions?

Unity of purpose is an important factor that fosters nation building. It is important for all Nigerians to have the same sense of direction and motivation. We must also value unity above our differences. Diversity is an advantage that offers a unique blend of strengths and potentials and unlocks immense possibilities for nation building.  When we embrace our diversity, we are able to leverage all the resources, capabilities and opportunities that our diversity offers us.

Who are your mentors in nation-building, and why did you choose them? (

Nelson Mandela, for his unwavering faith and bold vision for a new nation. Lee Kuan Yew, for his charismatic leadership and result orientation. And Barrack Obama, who I had the privilege of meeting in person, during the last year of his presidency, for his strategic approach to governance and his ability to communicate in a way that inspires bold action.