By: OLAYINKA LATONA

LEADERSHIP Voice of Integrity International, V.O.I, a non-governmental organisation has called on Nigerian leaders to exhibit integrity, transparency, and accountability in governance.

Stressing the importance of accountability in governance, the president of the group, Prof. Solomon Godwin at a 3-days international conference of group held recently in Lagos with the theme: ‘Leadership Amidst Global Economic Down Turn’, said leaders must recognize that power is a sacred trust, and they will be held accountable for their actions.

According to him,  effective and credible leadership in both public and private sectors entailed the virtues of integrity and transparency and called on leaders across the country to imbibe those virtues.

He said: “However, we must acknowledge that our democracy still faces significant challenges. Insecurity, economic hardship, and social injustice continue to afflict our citizens. We urge the government to prioritize the common good, address these pressing issues, and ensure that our democracy serves the people, not just the interests of a few.

“We emphasize the importance of integrity, transparency, and accountability not only in governance but ever sphere of human endeavors.

 “The most powerful way to instill integrity in  leadership  is to model it consistently. A leader’s actions speak louder than words. Your team is always looking to you for cues on how to behave, especially in challenging situations. Those in leadership positions in politics, religious organisations should demonstrate integrity in every decision they make, whether big or small. This includes being honest about mistakes, giving credit where it’s due,

The group further asked the federal government to engage Nigerian youths to promote developmental goals of the country.

Some of the speakers at the event include; David Majekodunmi, Mobolaji Adeniyi, Nosa Best Ojo,  Tony Olukoyede, Dayo Ekang,Godspower Obamwonyi and others.