By Chioma Obinna

The Board of Trustees and Management Team of the Dr. Osahon Enabulele Foundation (DOEF) have called for renewed commitment to ethical leadership, good governance and responsible citizenship, declaring that collective action remains critical to addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges and securing sustainable national development in 2026.

Welcoming citizens, partners, volunteers and stakeholders to the new year, the Foundation expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to witness “a new year of possibilities,” while reflecting on 2025 as a period marked by global, regional and national challenges that tested institutions and individuals alike.

“The year 2025 challenged us, inspired us and strengthened our resolve to serve humanity with compassion, integrity and purpose,” the Foundation said in a New Year message issued by its leadership. “Despite a very difficult socio-economic and political environment, we were still able to make meaningful impact in the lives of individuals, students and the communities we serve.”

In a press statement signed by the founder, Dr Osahon Enabuleke, the Foundation said its interventions in 2025 focused on promoting leadership excellence and good governance, advancing access to quality healthcare and education, and empowering young people through civic engagement initiatives.

A major highlight of the year was the organisation of a first-of-its-kind, state-wide Inter-Schools Debate Contest in Edo State, which brought together 52 secondary schools and 586 students drawn from all 18 local government areas and the three senatorial districts of the state.

“This initiative was designed to sharpen critical thinking, civic awareness and leadership capacity among young people, while fostering unity across communities,” the Foundation noted.

DOEF expressed appreciation to its members, partners, donors and volunteers for their support, describing their contributions as instrumental to the milestones recorded during the year.

Looking ahead, the Foundation said 2026 presents fresh opportunities to deepen its impact, expand its reach and reaffirm its commitment to building an egalitarian society anchored on fairness, opportunity and shared prosperity.

“As pacesetters, we remain focused on making more meaningful social impact through leadership development, policy advocacy and the empowerment of citizens with equitable access to quality education and healthcare,” the statement read. “We shall remain dedicated to innovation, collaboration and sustainable solutions that address the genuine concerns of citizens and create lasting change.”

Beyond its internal agenda, DOEF issued a strong call to governments at all levels to demonstrate greater commitment to leadership excellence and ethical governance, stressing that public trust and national progress depend on responsible stewardship.

“Governments must show stronger commitment to the security, health, education, welfare and prosperity of their citizens in order to achieve improved national development,” the Foundation said.

The organisation also urged citizens to play their part by rejecting corruption and holding leaders accountable.

“We call on citizens to be more responsible followers, committed to changing prevailing negative narratives by consistently holding their governments to account and shunning all forms of inducement designed to corrupt the system,” the statement added.

According to the Foundation, effective collaboration among governments, civil society organisations and citizens could make 2026 a transformative year.

“With all stakeholders effectively playing their roles and working together, we are confident that 2026 can mark a turning point for nations and their citizens,” it said.

The Foundation invited stakeholders to continue the journey through support, advocacy and a shared belief in a better future.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees and Management Team of the Dr. Osahon Enabulele Foundation, we specially welcome all citizens to the year 2026,. May peace, love, unity and progress reign, and may 2026 be more fulfilling and prosperous for citizens of the world.”