Youngstars Foundation

My name is Oluwaseyi Samuel Ajimoko, a social entrepreneur who believes so much in the future of Nigeria. I am a native of Ekiti State. I was born and raised in the city of Ibadan. I had my Secondary school education in Federal Government College Ido-Ani Ondo State and Studied Food Science and Technology in Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife Osun State.

While in OAU, I started a social networking site that was to connect students from Nigerian Universities and report news from campuses all around the country which was called ‘StudentSummit‘, and at that time accessible on www.studentsummit.net. The site also featured student achievers on a monthly basis. The column was created to celebrate students with extra-ordinary achievements and abilities. Apart from the news and the achievers column, the site also had entertainment columns like the autos and cribs columns where students’ rooms, houses and cars were featured weekly.

Unfortunately, ‘StudentSummit‘ could not stand the competition against the foreign and well funded social networking sites like the Hi5, photobucket, flickr and most recently facebook. The inability to draw funds and attract investors let to the death of the site and the birth of a new company which is today known as SparkleCity Nigeria Limited which is well positioned and more focused.

SparkleCity Nigeria is a Brand Consulting firm committed to helping both small and medium scale entrepreneurs grow their businesses, imbibe internationally acceptable best practices and standards, develop their brands and increase their brand equity. We are presently working on a program called the SparkleCity Projects and Research Exhibition 2010 which is coming up on 20th to 22nd of October 2010 at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Center FCT, Abuja in conjunction with the National Universities Commission (NUC). The aim of the program is to exhibit both past and present final year projects in our Universities to investors, Business owners, and policy makers in the government, the media and members of the public in a bid to get investors to invest in at least one of the projects and transform it into a product in our markets. More information on SPRE 2010 is available on our website www.sparklecity-ng.com.

Aside the program, SparkleCity from time to time turn out web packages and IT Solutions that enhance and promotes the participation and involvement of youths in the democratic processes in the Country and Nation building generally. Our most recent release is allova.com which is targeted towards promoting citizen journalism; an act which allows youths to report happenings in their respective communities to the world. We have created this because we believe before we can proffer solutions to the problems of our nation, we have to be well informed about what the problems are and there is no better way to do that other than to get involved.

I strongly believe that Nigeria can be better if we all play our part, and change begins with each and every one of us.

This summer 100 school children will run a miniature of Nigeria. From making policies to winning awards. Your child should be there.

What is Koboland about?
10 unforgettable days where children shall preside over a miniature of Nigeria A child shall head The presidency, Banks, Telecoms, Police Force, INEC, businesses etc under the guidance of relevant agencies.

Why should my child be at Koboland?
Koboland shall deepen children’s understanding of nation hood, entrepreneurship thinking, visionary career choices, financial literacy among others. Awards shall be presented to best performing children in different categories of Koboland.

Who can attend Koboland?
School children aged between 14 and 16 OR those between JSS 3 – SSS 2.

When is it holding?
August 16th – 28th, 2010; 8:30am – 4.30pm daily.

Where is it holding?
Airforce Military School, Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria.

How Can I Participate?
A. Click here to download application form and brochure.

B. Make a non-refundable deposit of N7,500 at any of the following banks:

GTBank

Account Name: Handz and Mindz Ltd.

Account Number: 332994202110

OR

ZENITH Bank

Account Name: Handz and Mindz Ltd.

Account Number: 6217000714

This fee entitles each child to lunch and conference materials.

C. Submit forms at any of the following Centers:

• GTBank, Ahmadu Bello Way, Jos
• Tee-El-Tee Bookshop, Opposite NTA, Yakubu Gowon Way.
• Victory Bookshop, 44 Barracks Road, Near Rwang Pam Street, Jos.
• Youngstars Foundation, A.M.Dung Street, Sparkling Junction, Dadin Kowa, Jos.

NOTE: Entry closes on August 12th, 2010

For Enquiries call: +2348133719353, +2348052192951, +2348035868586.

E-mail: experiencekoboland@yahoo.com

Koboland® is an initiative of Handz and Mindz Ltd RC 824739. Handz and Mindz Ltd works to integrate ethics, empathy and critical thinking into the educational experience of children aged between 5 and 17.

Nigeria is in dare need of development.  At 50, the nation has barely nothing to showcase as a politically independent nation.  Over the years, the country has experienced high level of political instability with intermittent changes between democratic and dictatorial forms of governance.   However for eleven years now, the polity has witnessed relative stability with the ushering in of the fourth republic in 1999.   Meanwhile, our nascent democracy over these years have not been all that smooth, but it is hoped that it keeps changing for better.

To keep the trend and consolidate on the gains of democratic governance, we need a visionary and benevolent leader as the Number one citizen come May 2011.  Yes, the individual  must have a Vision and should be able to remain focused on this Vision while his tenure lasts.  He should also be able to consolidate on the Visions of past leaders.  For example, the incoming president has to keep alive, the Late President Yar’adua’s Vision of Nigeria becoming one of the twenty most developed economies in the world by the year 2020.  He also has to be one concerned with the welfare of the Nigerian citizenry.  All his decisions has to be aligned in favour of the common people and not for the political class.

My President in 2011 has to be a man of integrity and honour.  He should have a ‘clean’ record in the places he has previously served.  He should not be a person of questionable character.  Again, he must be a man of his words.  He should be able to provide a lasting antidote for the wound of corruption which a greater majority of Nigerians bear.  The first step in this is through personal example.  Inordinate wealth acquisition should not be in his agenda.   He should be very honest and transparent in all his dealings, and by that inspire the governed to follow suit.

In the area of political appointments and giving out responsibilities, the nation’s chief servant has to very stern making his choices.  It will pay the nation more if he chooses from the class of technocrats who have track records of achievement in their chosen careers, than giving consideration to a list compiled by political godfathers.  He also has to ensure that all the geo-political zones as well as the two major religious groups in the country are well accommodated in his cabinet.  It should be his resolve to always get things done in the right manner for the benefit of all.

If Nigeria must emerge as one of the twenty most developed economies of the world come 2020, then ‘Ingenuity’ should be a trait that the man on the Steering must possess.  He should be able to diversify the economy in order to increase our foreign exchange earnings. Nigeria has the potential of being a force to reckon with in the world’s economy.   We only need to develop those areas that are currently lying dormant and I strongly believe the country will produce a president that will lead this endeavour come 2011.

In recent times, insecurity has been the undoing of many developmental projects in the nation.   Under this scenario, the country has lost huge sums of money and material resources to the activities of hoodlums.  To arrest this situation, we need a leader that is very proactive. He should be able to tackle criminal activities before they get out of hand.  Even as the country is in a mess with the activities of kidnappers and armed robbers, the incoming president should be able to stem the tide by using the mighty armed forces of the nation to wrest the sword from these ugly fists.

While it may seem unrealistic to get a perfect leader, we need a leader who will not excuse his incompetences with human frailty.  He should be able to strive conscientiously towards upholding the above mentioned qualities.  Being human, he may give in under tight decision-making situations, but should not in the process let the reins slip off his hands.  It is also important that he takes advice from well meaning individuals, while at the same time not succumbing to the selfish desires of his Party stalwarts.

Nigeria needs a very charismatic leader.  Someone that generations yet unborn will like to emulate.  Yes, the likes of Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy of America, Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, Mahatma Gandhi of India and Nelson Mandela of South Africa.  We need a leader that we can look up to and say ‘There is hope for our children’.  I believe the time for him to emerge is just by the corner.  Let’s see what happens in 2011.   Long live Nigeria! Our country, our pride!

A Visionary Leader: The Saviour Nigeria Needs
Introduction

“I personally believe that the truest and best leaders were those who lead from the heart and who followed their own values”. Leaders like Abraham Lincoln, Jesse Jackson, George Washington, Andrew Carnegie and many others were truthful, sincere, self-sacrificing and selfless leaders who sort the interests of those they led rather than seeking their own comfort. These great leaders who at a time were presidents of their country had visions and they pursued it vehemently without any compromise but in accordance to their own spiritual, moral and personal beliefs despite intense oppositions, rejection, failure, and even personal hardship. These are the qualities and values my President in Nigeria must have in 2011 and the reasons for these are the focus of this essay.

The Concept of Leadership

The concept of leadership in any given quota or sector have been defined and considered in many ways. While some believe that great leaders are born not made, others vice-versa. However, this is no the essence of this essay. Amy Potavin defines leadership as “A person who by force of example, talents, or qualities plays a directing role, wield commanding influence, or has following in any sphere of activity or thought”. Neale Donald Walsch writes that, ‘A true leader is not the one with the most followers, but one who creates the most leaders. Jack Welch defines a leader as someone who knows that “Before you are a leader, success is all about growing yourself. When you become a leader, success is all about growing others’. For instance, Richard C. Stazesky extensively described George Washinghton, the first American President as “As a Charismatic, energetic, courageous, ambitious, affectionate with exemplary character, temperament, and an admirer of the populace at all levels of society. The most commonly cited characteristics given for his emergence as the supreme leader are his character and a genius in the area of leadership”.

The Qualities and Values My President come 2011 Must Have

After a thorough evaluation of great past leaders with deep consultation of books written on them and other relevant articles written about leadership, I came with these qualities and values that my President come 2011 must have in Nigeria. These qualities and values are Visionary, Honesty, Credibility and Trust, Ability to Motivate Others, Willingness to accept mistakes and Correction, Dedication and Discipline, Charismatic Ability and Consensus Building.

Visionary/ Ability to Motivate Others:The visionary leader, primarily, has very clear, encompassing and far-reaching vision concerning the cause or organization involved. This vision includes ideas and goals that remain constant no matter how long it takes to realize them and regardless of the difficulties, which the leader encounters. The visionary leader is skillful in designing and creating an organizational culture that will make possible the attainment of the leader’s vision and ideas. A Visionary leader is a person who can attract others to follow him/her in seeking attainment of the vision. But more than that, this charismatic person is able to instill in others the ideas, beliefs and values of the vision so that they become empowered to move beyond the leader’s their own expectations. In order to lead and set direction a leader needs to appear confident as a person and in the leadership role.

Honesty (Credibility and Trust): This Nigerian president must be honest, trustworthy, and credible. According to Stazesky, people trusted George Washington because he had demonstrated a noble and incorruptible character and he also shown himself to be an exceptional leader. A good leader should be commendable, trustworthy so that people can follow him/her and exemplary. He /she should live his life with honesty and integrity. Successful presidential leadership has always depended on a presidential administration’s credibility and the public’s trust in a president’s word. ‘Trust is the coin of the realm,’ said George Schultz, secretary of 2 state during the Reagan administration. Presidents have lost their credibility in either of two ways: by breaking with accepted standards of national governance or by promising more than they could deliver. He/she must be ready to declare the state of the nation’s treasury at any point in time.

Dedication and Discipline: A good leader believes in discipline. He/she follows an orderly manner and routine but still he/she is tolerant. He/she has excellent logical and analytical skills of tackling issues and every other aspects of the situation before arriving to any decision. His/her excellent logical and analytical skills drive him to being proactive and committed to excellent; maintaining high standard and acts as an idol for his/her followers. His/her personal and public life both are remarkable and stain free. He/she inspires his/her team to achieve target and lead them to success. Willingness to Admit Mistakes and ability to listen are others qualities of a good leader.

Charismatic Ability: Dallek said, “The most successful presidents have also been larger-than-life figures, actors on the stage of history with an uncommon capacity to bring drama to the office”. Presidents have succeeded and failed in proportion to their effectiveness in making strong use of this power to become popular figures. The most capable have been able to reduce the distance between themselves and the people by diminishing the impersonality of the office, or by using their personal appeal to excite public interest and affection.

Consensus Building: Vision, pragmatism, charisma, and trust have all been put in the service of building a national consensus for a president’s leadership. America’s most astute presidents have understood how vital a broad consensus is to any far-reaching domestic or foreign policy. They have also appreciated how fickle and unreliable the public mood has been, and how difficult it can be to get the nation to support a presidential proposal, especially if it represented a departure from customary patterns. In brief, the visionary leader has a vision into the future, can develop an effective organization and can attracts others to strive also for the attainment of his/her vision so that it becomes a shared vision and they all work together in an organization that sustains the vision its beliefs and its values. He /she give people voice and direction.

WHY? For effective leadership and great achievement, a visionary leader with all these qualities is needed. For long, we have been gambling with the issue of leadership in Nigeria. I think it is high time this gambling stopped. Every sector in Nigeria needs the touch of a visionary and unrelenting leader who can breathe life and be what Thomas Carlyle, the Scottish historian and essayist referred as “a captain of industry”. Someone that will be ready to take responsibility in order to achieve the essence of his/her administration which must be to better the lots of the Nigerians. Furthermore, for Nigeria to take her place back in Africa and the world at large, a visionary leader must be elected as the President of this nation regardless of gender. In terms of corruption, selfishness in government and in leadership, Nigeria has a resounding position. This singular act accounts for high rate of unemployment among the youths, which lead to high rate of criminal activities, lack of basic amenities, backward educational system, low health care facilities, terrorism, crises and many other acts that sum what is called ‘bad governance’. For us to tackle all these ‘fables’, Nigerians need an effective leader. William A. Ward said, “Blessed is the person who sees the need, recognizes the responsibility, and actively becomes the answer”. This is the kind of president that I and every other Nigerian must have come 2011.

References
Dallek, Robert. “President of the United States.” Microsoft® Student 2008 [DVD]. Redmond, WA: Microsoft Corporation, 2007. Richard C. Stazesky George Washington, Genius in Leadership (A Presentation made by Reverend Richard C. Stazesky at a meeting on February 22, 2000 of The George Washington Club, Ltd, Wilmington, Delaware. )

http://gwpapers.virginia.edu.articles/stazesky.html

http://ezineardarcles.com/?Ten-Qualities-of-a-Goood-Leader&id=2468413

http://www.groco.com/readingroom/bus_goodleader.aspx

http://lifestyle.iloveindia.com/lounge/qualities-of-a-good-leader-3898.html

www.teamtechnology.co.uk/leadership-qualities.html

http://searchcio.techtarget.com/news/article/0,289142,sid182_gci1007327,00.html
(All accessed on June 26, 2010)

The problem of poor leadership in Nigeria is a persistent plague that must elicit worry from any patriotic citizen. That there is a leadership problem has never been in doubt; more so that public office holders are always the first to harp on the implications of our leadership inadequacies on the wellbeing of the country and her people.

Despite been the world’s 15th largest producer of oil and Africa’s second (as at June 2008), Nigeria’s economy is ranked a lowly 39th, with a heart-rending GDP of 8.23 percent (as at end of 2009), and a rather ignoble record of 70 percent of its people living – or better put, scavenging – on less than $1 per day (United Nations Human Development). Consequently, poverty, unemployment, poor infrastructure, erratic power supply, political and religious violence, insecurity of lives and property, have become predominant.

Other African nations are no different. To sum it all, it was recently announced that the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Prize for African Leadership, for the second year running, would not be awarded, because no leader on the continent was found worthy. Eligible entrants of the award – the highest rewarding leadership prize in the world – are former democratically elected heads of African countries, who have been out of office for not more than three years. That there was not even a shortlist this year further amplifies the seriousness of the need to redefine the essence of leadership.

Next year presents Nigeria another opportunity to address her leadership woes. Already, the acclaimed giant of the African continent has been through a lot these past months: the long-term absence of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, the turmoil generated by resulting political machinations, his unfortunate passing away and the accompanying disruptions in the polity; choosing the wrong candidate in 2011 will be too punitive, especially to an overly shortchanged and overstretched people. If only my vote alone would determine who would be President this time next year, his emergence would be due to his possession of my nine-step requirement-acronym: my political leaders in 2011 must be a PRESIDENT!

Probity: Absolute moral correctness is how Encarta Dictionaries defines it. Probity is almost all-encompassing. We need a President who understands the inhibitive impacts of corruption on national progress, set up rules against it, and as well dispassionately prosecute culprits; who appreciates the urgent need for credible elections; who will neither short-circuit the judiciary for self-serving ambitions, nor repress the press from speaking for the people; who, very importantly, would be the very mirror of the change he would be claiming to bring.

Radicalism: Nigeria seems to operate a careful governance system, one that is afraid of altering established norms and structures. This style may not be a bad idea after all, but where has it led us? We need a leader who has the heart to make sweeping political, economic and social changes than that traditionally supported by mainstream political parties – this is the real essence of radicalism. Sweeping changes!

Energy: This is about the most important lesson from the last presidential reign. Almost everyone who worked closely with the late President Yar’Adua praised his willingness to give a better life to the people; but in the end, a feeble state of health dealt the coup de grace to all the willpower. It is important that we do not repeat the mistake of electing someone with a proven record of nursing a terminal illness.

Sincerity: Nigeria needs someone who possesses an elevated perception of personal sincerity, and will approach the country’s situation with sincerity. This translates to a President who will conduct a census that will produce reliable and indisputable figures, as against what we have witnessed in the past; who will not set unrealistic deadlines for ensuring stable electricity supply or raising workers’ wages or ensuring education for all. Such a President will regain belief of the people, which past leaders had frittered away.

Independence: Nigerian leaders might have secured independence from British colonialists, but certainly not independence from the constrictive hold of political parties. Most public office holders are beholden to party moneybags who financed their campaigns, and the result is stiff competition between party and people loyalty. In 2011, my President must be someone who is more loyal to the people than his party, and that can only happen if his campaign is self-financed or assisted by people who expect nothing in return.

Determination: It would be unfair to many of the leaders who have failed in the past, to say that they had no plans for the people; they probably were not determined enough. Any president who would succeed must anticipate regular uprising in the Niger Delta and envisage sabotage from greedy, criminal elements who have been profiting from the unrests; expect frustration of efforts to restore regular electricity supply, from generator importers; foresee hindrance to developmental efforts by key opposition figures; and must be prepared to determinedly and relentlessly confront them.

Empiricism: A President who understands that there is no universal solution to our problems as a people, and will devise solutions according to the local and national peculiarities of our plight, will make a decent choice.

Nationalism: It is important that the next President is nationalistic in every respect, as 2011 is not the time to champion a northern, eastern or southern agenda. He must see Nigeria through a national lens; not as an entity of several distinctive interests. He, therefore, must appoint people into strategic public offices based on merit, without been given to ethnic or geopolitical sentiments.

Tact: This is important if he must cope with the complexities of office such as convincing opposition legislators to support a bill or managing emotive initiatives such as demolitions of so-called illegal structures that would pave the way for further societal developments.

In all, the search for a President should not be idealistic. We must not forget that all aspiring presidents, from which we will make a choice, are mortals, who can never be perfect. We will not have a perfect President in 2011, but we can have a successful PRESIDENT.

Introduction:

That Nigeria is blessed with abundance human and material resources is no doubt. Do you know Nigerian problem is not lack of funding, programmes‚ policies, strategies, plans, or constitution/laws? Do you know that more political parties, ministries‚ commissions‚ committee‚ states‚ political reform, new leaders, increase in budget allocations etc cannot solve our problems? Do you also know that new salary schemes, more employment opportunities etc can not bring economic development and growth in Nigeria? Or is it that our past and present leaders lack academic qualifications to manage these resources? More confusing or pathetic is, do you know that ten years ago some of our present leaders were just like you and I complaining, blaming and angry about the mess our then leaders have caused to the economy of Nigeria, yet now that the opportunity has come for them to correct such bad things they are even worse?  It doesn’t take a genius to understand what is lacking in our economy right now. So what does Nigeria-will-be 2010 president must have that is different from the past and present president to bring change to Nigerians and Nigeria economy? He or she must have: passion, honesty and courage.

Passion

Very important in the qualities of governance and leadership is passion. Passion is the bearing of good governance and leadership, and without it, leadership is baseless because a good leader must see him or herself as a servant, be always close to his or her followers, feel their pains, put himself or herself in the shoes of his followers, give solution to their problems. We are shaped and motivated by what we love – it is our passion that drives us to do our best. Passion is the central motivation of all human activity. It endows each of us with the power to live and communicate with unbridled enthusiasm.

Why passion?

Passion or love will enable him or her to be people-driven. This will also raise a patriotic sense of nationalism, patriotism and brotherhood which will automatically eliminate sentiment, tribalism, religion, regional, ethnic, zonal etc differences. He or she will be driven by the notion that we are all one and have one mission. Passion or love eliminates selfishness and greed; the backbone of corruption.

Passion makes him or her to see Nigeria as the best. He or her commitment to the common good and national progress must be fuelled by his or her conviction and love for Nigerians and Nigeria.

Leaders as Martin Luther Jr., who broke the bond of segregation between the white and the blacks and made a positive change of unity, equal right and opportunity justice, after many years of struggle, during which he was jailed 20 times and Nelson Mandela of South Africa, who fought for the freedom of his country, and was even jailed for 26years were driven by passion.

Finally, Leadership is passion. Without passion, a person will have very little influence as a leader. I believe passion provides an individual with the light of leadership and creates an undeniable drive to make a difference.

What is honesty? “Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.” Thomas Jefferson.

Honesty refers to a facet or part of moral character and denotes positive, virtuous attributes such as integrity, truthfulness, straightforwardness, sincerity, discipline, fair, genuine along with the absence of lying, cheating or theft. To be honest is to be REAL; giving the actual and real facts about a situation. An honest person is one who is dependable and reliable no contradictions or discrepancies in thoughts, words, or actions not deceptive or fraudulent.

Why honesty:

When you stick to what you know is right or wrong, you don’t regret anything you have done.

People follow your example and act more honestly.

Your powers of observation are more accurate. You can see the truth about others more easily.

You handle rejection and criticism more easily.

You have fewer personality conflicts with others even when you are aggressive.

You fight crimes against you or others with more ferocity or intensity when you have nothing to hide.

When you make a mistake, it is easy to accept responsibility and move forward.

You earn the reputation as a person with integrity; call a spade a spade; keep to their words or promises, do what the promised and promise what they can do. Monies given for projects will be judiciously used. A government runs with honesty and integrity will create an atmosphere of trust, cooperation and investment.

Your odds of being sued, fined or convicted of a crime go way down –Guilty conscious –you will believe me that most of our past and present leaders could or are not performing well because of fear of their past did.

Courage:

“Cautious, careful people, always casting about to preserve their reputation and social standing, never can bring about a reform. Those who are really in earnest must be willing to be anything or nothing in the world’s estimation, and publicly and privately, in season and out, avow their sympathy with despised and persecuted.”

What is courage?

Courage or bravery is the ability to act rightly in the face of popular opposition or discouragement. Courage is strength of purpose, to do one’s best and not swerve from one’s path; a quality of spirit that enables you to face danger or pain without showing fear. Courage makes you to persevere against your adversaries; the willingness to get things done despite risks. It might mean having the imagination and vision to know what might happen if you do battle, and yet being driven by personal conviction to fight on. It means putting oneself on the line and standing up for what is right and true.

Why courage?

Things have really gone bad. To change the prevailing “status quo” – corruption the will-be 2010 must be dogged or courageous.  Corruption has done lot of destruction to the Nigerian economy to get back on tract for development and growth the 2010 president must have moral and civil boldness and courage -ability to act rightly in the face of popular opposition -stand up against something that is deemed unjust and evil, knowing that the consequences of his or her action might lead to their death, injury or some other form of significant harm to correct every sector in our society. Things have really gone bad so been polite will take us nowhere. He must face it! To sojourn or break this existing terrain he or she must be dogged and have tenacity of purpose. This means change and change create crisis because he or she must step on toes. A president with courage can handle or manage these crises. The courage of voice— raising difficult issues, providing tough feedback and sharing unpopular opinions.

Conclusion: As I earlier said, there is nothing new we need only a president with compassion/passion, honesty and courage. The government or leadership that exhibits these qualities there shall be:

Transparency – mean that citizens must be able to “see through” its workings, to know exactly what goes on when public officials transact public business.

Accountability: the acknowledgment and assumption of responsibility for actions, products, decisions, and policies including the administration, governance, and implementation within the scope of the role or employment position and encompassing the obligation to report, explain and be answerable for resulting consequences and

Due process: people will be hired on their qualifications not their connections and contracts will go to the best and lowest bidder.

Government that does not exhibit these qualities is more prone to corruption and undue influence because there is no public oversight of decision making.

Although there has not been a single and universally accepted definition of leadership, it is however important to know that the relevance of leadership can hardly ever be over emphasized. It is crystally clear that in every field of human endeavour, leadership is of immense importance. It is almost everything because without it, failure becomes inevitable.

In simple terms, leadership according to David Hakala is ones ability to get others to willingly follow.

Here are qualities and values my president in 2011 must have and why:

PASSION: My president in 2011 must have passion for this country at heart. Someone who is both seriously hungry and thirsty for the country’s progress. My president must be someone with a dream and vision that will bring about the desired changes and which will make this country much better than what it is.

The reason why I want a president with passion is that, with passion he/she will be able to make necessary courageous and difficult decisions and carry them into actions. The only way we can have a Nigeria of our dream is to have a leaders who can make those necessary courageous and difficult decisions needed and carry them into actions.

VISION: My president in 2011 must have a mental picture of how the country should look like in the nearest future. He/she must have a clear vivid picture of where to lead this blessed country to as well as a firm grasp of what success is like and how to achieve it. In addition to being visionary, he/she (my president in 2011) must be able to communicate his/her vision effectively to cause Nigerians buy in to it. My president in 2011 must have the discipline to work towards his or her vision single-mindedly, as well as to direct his or her actions and those of the team towards the goal. Action is the mark of a leader. A leader does not suffer “analysis paralysis” but is always doing something in pursuit of the vision, inspiring others to do the same. That is the kind of president I want in 2011.

Reason why I want a visionary president is that, vision does not only give you a sense of direction but gives a leader an idea about changes that are necessary and the challenges to expect along the way.

CONFIDENCE AND HUMILITY: In addition to passion and vision, my president in 2011 must possess confidence and humility as a person. This is because confidence will allow him/her to take those necessary actions that will bring about desired changes. Humility on the other hand is necessary because no matter how creative and bright a leader is, often, the best ideas and thinking are going to come from someone else. The president that I want in 2011 must be someone who is able to identify that and have good people around who can who have those ideas.

My reason for this is that, even with great ideas for change, if one is not confident, then actions will not occur and leaders who lack humility as a quality often fail to succeed.

INTEGRITY: My president in 2011 must be a person of integrity, someone who can be trusted and someone that is honest in all his/her dealings. Someone with predictable reactions, well controlled emotions and with absence of harsh outbursts. These are what integrity entails.

My president must possess this quality because a leader who is centred in integrity will be more approachable by followers. This is important as it will enable well meaning individuals (Nigerians) to make meaningful contributions necessary for desired change.

DEDICATION: In 2011, I want a president who is capable of spending whatever time, energy and resources necessary to accomplish a given task. Someone who inspires dedication by example, doing whatever it takes to complete the next step towards his/her vision.

The reason why I want my president to possess this quality in 2011 is that, dedicated leaders set excellent examples to followers to achieve something great.

CHARISMA: My president in 2011 must be likeable. Respect is very important at any level of leadership position. My president must have a magnetic personality and the ability to inspire others. This is a tremendous asset as it will enable him/her win the hearts of the people and the friendship of other nations.

CREATIVITY: This is the ability to think differently and my president in 2011 must be a person who is capable of thinking and seeing things that others have not seen and thus lead this nation in new directions.

This is necessary because followers will have full confidence in such a leader to provide solutions in tough times and periods of challenges.

FAIRNESS: Most of our Nigerian past and present leaders lack this quality and it is a serious challenge which demands quick intervention. The problem is, people are hardly judged on merits instead, most Nigerian leaders pass judgements based on religious or ethnic backgrounds which is another reason why Nigeria is not making progress as a nation. In 2011, I want a president who will treat every Nigerian as a Nigerian and not based on ethnic or religious background and emphasize strict penalties for other Nigerian leaders that are defaulters. I want a president who is consistently and justly fair in his/her judgements.

The reason why I want this quality in my president in 2011 is that, when Nigerians feel they are being treated fairly, such a president will be rewarded with loyalty and dedication.

ASSERTIVENESS: This is simply a leaders’ ability to clearly state what he expects (and accepts nothing less) so that there will be no misunderstandings.

Many leaders have difficulties tricking the right amount of assertiveness, according to a study in the February 2007 issue of the journal of personality and psychology, published by the American Psychological Association. The study reveals that, being underassetive or overassertive may be the most common weakness among many aspiring leaders. My president in 2011 must be able to strike a balance between the two and in addition, he/she must also know clearly what Nigerians expect from him/her.

ABSOLUTE ZERO TOLERANCE FOR CURRUPTION: In 2011, my president must be someone with an absolute zero tolerance for corruption. Someone that will put in strict measures to check corruption from the entire system. This is very important as corruption has eaten deep into the system and the number one cause of the nation’s stunted growth and lack of development.

In conclusion, my president in 2011 must promise a government as it should be: open, accountable, principled and forward looking just to mention a few. He/she must be champion of equity and social justice, someone who is uncommonly courageous, loyal to principles over politics. He/she must be a leader not only of those who voted him/her but to every Nigerian. My president in 2011 must be a patriot and a true citizen of the world, someone who is willing to ask more of the Nigerian people and also not afraid to be asked more by the Nigerian people. If we are to have a Nigeria of our dream, a Nigeria which both our children and childrens’ children would be proud of, then this is the kind of president we need in 2011.

The seat of the President is a very important leadership position; hence it should not be taken for a mere title. What is leadership and who exactly is a leader? Leadership is about creating a strong foundation within yourself that is able to support and nurture those that are weaker than you are. Leadership is the process of influencing team members to work hard towards, and be committed to team goals – Nigeria is a team and our president is the leader.

Nigeria has long suffered the leadership of people who are hungry and completely in love with money and power. People who go through hell and again to get to that “position” in order to get their own share of the infamous “National cake”, something that would have been shared fairly and even gotten without a fight if the true leaders were there in the first place.

My country, Nigeria has spent over 10 years as a democratic nation, therefore, mediocrity in its leadership is not acceptable. We need an exceptional leader, an excellent leader; a leader who is worthy of our vote and not just another waste of our time and other resources no matter how little or insignificant they may seem.

My 2011 President should be ethical and convey a strong vision; a vision to take Nigeria and its people to greater heights. This will win him trust, loyalty and will ensure the continuous vitality of the country. Not only should he have a vision, it is absolutely necessary that he be passionate about it because people don’t follow other people—they follow the vision that the chosen leader is committed towards. Study the life of any great leader throughout history and you will, without doubt, see a truly great visionary.

To be worthy of being referred to as a Nigerian president in 2011, a person should be action-oriented, he should be able to move from vision to attainment; potential to action; from promises to fulfilment, if not, he will only end up being counted as on of Nigerian’s horrible leaders. He should be enthusiastic about his work or cause and also about his role as leader because exuding confidence towards a proposed objective would inspire the best effort from Nigerians.

He must possess the highest level of integrity. Integrity is harmony of actions and intentions—doing what you say and acting the same on the outside as you do on the inside. Nigeria’s 2011 President should be someone who does what he says and says what he does, for it is only in doing so that he earns the right to have responsibility for others. This “number one citizen” of the Republic of Nigeria, should possess a strong foundation from within; a foundation that will support the building of our great nation, Nigeria.

He should be of honourable character; a good and strong character; a character which shows drive, energy, determination, self-discipline, willpower, and nerve, for this would make Nigerians loyal to him, and ensure the accomplishment of his visions. He sees that which will be beneficial to the country and goes after it.

To gain our trust, my 2010 leader must be competent. He should be able to put aside his wants and seek that which is good for Nigeria and its citizens. He should be capable of developing his people and enhancing their potential. Being the number one citizen of the country, he should be able to encourage Nigerians to take on new responsibilities and to grow and learn. As a true leader, he will see this as a responsibility and not a burden because that investment in the personal growth of Nigerians will pay off substantially in the future. He should be courageous – he should be able to face his fears – so as not to hinder, the country; his people, from reaching their utmost potential.

Nigeria’s 2011 President should be able to make good and timely decisions; he should be tactful and dependable, he should do extremely well in the art of communication, motivation, mutual respect, and showing honesty and credibility constantly; for this will inevitably instil confidence and enthusiasm in Nigerians, hence broadening the hope of a greater Nigeria. He should build excellence, not command excellence; guide Nigerians, not rule Nigerians.

My 2011 President should always be ready to learn; because no one is an “encyclopaedia of all knowledge” and more importantly, of what use is a new President in Nigeria, if he would only end up making the mistakes and completely mirroring the terrible leadership of the previous leaders. Flexibly is an essential attribute for someone in a leadership position. He should be able to welcome with open arms reasonable and positive changes and ideas.

Finally, I dare say at this point that it will be of benefit to Nigeria’s 2011 President to be an exceptional leader because the better a leader he is, the more Nigerians will listen to him and follow his vision and the greater positive change he can make on the world as part of his legacy.

Note: The President could also be female, I only made the male generalization for easier flow of the essay. Thanks.

No nation stands a better chance of formulating and implementing substantial policies that will result to her sustainable development without a reputable and effective leadership. Although leadership has been known as a process that involves setting out objectives and achievement of goals, identifying problems and initiating change for the purpose of improving the existing conditions, but it also represents a process of influence between a leader and the followers aimed primarily at attaining mutual goals and objectives of the society or nation. It is imperative to note that leadership is not the responsibility of the leader alone but requires the co-operative efforts of the citizens (followers).

The president (leader) forms the central and vital part of the leadership process. Consequent upon this, adequate care has to be taken by Nigerians in democratically electing a president in 2011 that will possess these enviable qualities and values:

Wisdom: This is the principal quality any person aspiring for the position of the president must strive to possess for him or her to be able to translate ideas into reality. A personal ability acquired through thinking and experience, Nigerians need a president who is capable to know what knowledge needed in a given situation, how to circulate and renew that knowledge by working with other arms of government and how to effectively use it to solve a problem or achieve a goal. Although Nigeria belongs to a society where materials and energy constitute the most sought after resources, still we need a president that will embrace possession and mastery of knowledge as the new standard of economic value.

Competence: Nigerians will begin to have good appreciation and understanding of the fact that being a leader is related more to individual capabilities and competences rather than cabal or cliques. A quality that better describes who is best at what he or she knows how to do well, Nigerians needs a president who is committed in offering guidance to the entire executive council as well as the legislature (subordinates) on their responsibilities, informing them of policy changes, explaining reasons for decisions, and getting the subordinates’ reactions before going ahead with a new plan. It is obvious to say that it is a quality that justifies flexibility and versatility as the integral characteristics of effective leadership.

Ethical: Nations cling to democratically elected government to ensure that the rights and the dignity of the citizenry are fully respected. Any leader that strives for this quality always demonstrates a level of integrity, accountability and transparency which forms the basics of convincing the masses to accept his or her vision. Our nation needs a president that will embrace the interest of the masses at heart, struggling for what he or she can offer to Nigeria and not what Nigeria can offer in return. An ethical president does not exhibit autocracy rather he or she involves the subordinates in decision making processes taking full consideration on how their decisions impact the masses. It is worthwhile to note that the significant means of affecting change in a nation is through sheared decision making and participation. Although this does not suggest that the president will depend totally on the decisions of the subordinates, but will adopt his social power and authority in exerting influence while maintaining system progress and equity in the polity.

Peaceful: Our nation has long ago suffered from insecurity, political and economic instability. We need a president who will maintain enough stability and continuity to sustain optimism and hope for our dear nation. This will involve restoration of internal and external broken relationships resulting to conflicts resolution. It implies negotiating and settling the religious/ethnic crises that have invaded our nation. We need a patriotic president who is committed to the unity and advancement of our country Nigeria. Although good sense of humour is a relevant aptitude or behaviour a president must definitely exhibit or display in pursuit of peace, it does not imply that he or she will be weak in actions. If a sense of humour will be adopted, it will be with a serious intent.

Result oriented: It is obvious to note that effectiveness in leadership requires goal setting, implementation, evaluation and feedback. But translating decisions into action is a precious skill which goes a long way towards making a leader effective. We need a president that will clearly define his goals whose structure align or mesh well with its activities so as to achieve a desired result. In the context of participative or democratic leadership, we need a president who will prefer to work with the best and talented professionals as subordinates in the executive arm rather than personalities imposed on him or her by virtue of individuals and political party recommendations. It is well known that such personalities always struggle for the satisfaction of their personal interest rather than interest of the nation while slowing down the pace of good governance. We need a president who will understand that good governance can only be achieved when good intentions which are sometimes presented as point agendas are translated into actions.

Trust: This is a quality that grows out of experience and develops with time. We need a president that will provide the direction to follow when clarity is lacking about what is to be done and how. With trust, the subordinates and the masses will be able to take the risk to proceed with his or her directive tolerating the costs involved in the process. It is a strong quality and tool that will help to eliminate all forms of agitations from the masses and subordinates.

Inspirational: There is the need for the president to be an inspirational leader. This helps to promote sense of individual achievement and recognition. It motivates the subordinates, engaging them in intellectual and emotional commitment creating an atmosphere where both parties are equally responsible in the pursuit of their common goal. A president with these qualities will lead Nigeria into peace and prosperity.