...Calls for Urgent Leadership Development to Salvage Nigeria’s Future

By Olayinka Latona

Lagos — A strong call has been made for the intentional development of Christian youths as transformative leaders capable of driving Nigeria’s national development, amid what was described as a morally and socially depraved environment.

The call was made by Town Planner, Mr. Toyin Ayinde, during the 2nd Pastor S.G.O. Uyeh Public Lecture held on Saturday at The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Lawna Event Centre, Olorunda-Ketu, Lagos.

Speaking on the theme, “The Place and Impacts of Christian Youths in National Transformation and Development,” Ayinde said Nigeria’s relevance on the global stage depends largely on internal renewal led by morally grounded and competent young people.

“Christian youths are integral, not incidental, to national transformation,” he said. “They must reject the narrative of being leaders of tomorrow only. They are leaders of today, in preparation for tomorrow.”

Ayinde explained that youth intervention, particularly from a faith-based perspective, can stimulate national revival, drive innovation, unleash new energy, inspire movements and effect measurable changes in policies and societal values.

He, however, cautioned that calling alone does not equate to readiness. According to him, intentional preparation remains non-negotiable.

“Youths must be equipped with sound theology, ethical grounding, professional competence and leadership skills,” he stressed.

The lecturer proposed a five-step leadership development pipeline, which includes recognising the need for preparation, raising leadership consciousness, instituting rigorous training programmes, testing emerging leaders through practical assignments, and ultimately deploying them across all sectors of national life.

Emphasising the urgency of timely intervention, Ayinde warned that delays in youth development could stall national progress.

“If the best time to plant an oak tree was twenty years ago, the second-best time is now. For our nation, this work must begin today,” he said.

He also called on older generations to intentionally mentor young people and create space for their emergence, citing a Yoruba proverb: “Ọmọdé gbọ́n, àgbà gbọ́n ni a fi dá ilẹ̀ Ifẹ̀,” meaning that society is built through the collective wisdom of both the young and the old.

In his concluding remarks, Ayinde charged the audience to recognise the potential of the younger generation.

“The transformation of our nation is a tangible possibility waiting in the hearts and hands of a prepared generation of Christian youths,” he said.

The lecture attracted clergy, youth leaders, students and members of the public, and generated discussions around faith, leadership, governance and youth participation in nation-building.