Details

The Konrad Adenauer Stiftung organized a roundtable for members of the public on the 21st of April, 2016. The roundtable was to address the issue of leadership and accountability. Held at the Protea Hotel, Asokoro, Abuja, the roundtable had in attendance members of security agencies, civil society organizations, media and experts in leadership development.

A welcome address was given by the Country Representative of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung in Nigeria, Mrs. Hildegard Behrendt-Kigozi. She stressed the need for leadership and accountability in a democracy. She noted that a democracy cannot function well without adequate accountability and committed leadership. She also introduced the Konrad Adenauer as an organization that promotes civic education around the world. She gave a brief historical overview of the foundation in the world and in Nigeria.

The executive director of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, thereafter gave his keynote address on Leadership and Acccountability.He started by stating that the importance of leadership in an organization or country cannot be overemphasized and that political leadership is particularly crucial for development of nations. He also said that there is a need for accountability in Nigeria because of widespread and pervasive corruption.

He went on to explain what leadership is by backing his explanations with definitions by Bernard Montgomery, Myles Munroe and other scholars. He explained that there are three sets of skills required for leadership competence: conceptual , technical and social skills. He also hinted that transparency and accountability are necessary in public finance management in Nigeria. This should be reflected in the budget process, payment system, government accounting, financial reporting, audit and legislative oversight. Civil societies and the media also have a role to play in checking the three organs of government; they should be able to conduct this without fear and prejudice.

Dr. Igbuzor also pointed out ways in which corruption can be fought in the society. He disclosed that an integrity system should be instituted and there should also be an enforcement of anti-corruption legislation. He concluded by saying that leadership can promote accountability if the right and accountable leaders who have imbibed good leadership skills are chosen.

A discussion between invited guests and resource person then followed suits. Participants deliberated on contemporary Nigerian examples of corruption and how it can be tackled. Some opined that the agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission should be better strengthened.

The roundtable closed with remarks from Mrs. Kigozi who thanked the guests for coming and said it will be everyone’s joy to see Nigeria corruption-free.