An Ibadan Chief, Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, has identified corruption, bribery, mediocrity, weak institutions, and citizens’ failure to demand accountability as the major reasons quality and effective leadership will continue to elude Nigeria.
Adegoke, who is also the Aare Egbe-Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, made this assertion on Monday while presenting a paper titled “Democracy and the Search for Quality Leadership in Nigeria” at the opening ceremony of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council 2025 Press Week, held at the NUJ Secretariat, Iyaganku, Ibadan.
The event was graced by top dignitaries, including the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Segun Ogunwuyi; Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju; Special Adviser on Labour, Comrade Bayo Titilola-Sodo; NUJ Chairman, Comrade Ademola Babalola, and several journalists.
In his paper, Adegoke lamented that many capable Nigerians with the competence to turn around the nation’s fortunes are staying away from politics because of the entrenched culture of corruption, bribery, mediocrity, and weak institutional frameworks.
“For Nigeria to have quality leaders capable of transforming the country, the people must actively participate in politics and support merit over mediocrity,” he said.
He stressed that the foundation of national progress rests on quality education, civic participation, and attitudinal change, urging citizens to play active roles in the electoral process.
According to him, “Citizens should demand accountability from their leaders by asking questions, seeking information, and holding them responsible for their actions. They must support institutions that promote good governance, such as an independent judiciary, a free press, and anti-corruption agencies.
“They should invest in education and critical thinking to make informed decisions and participate effectively in the democratic process. The search for quality leadership in Nigeria requires attitudinal change and the collective effort of every Nigerian. We must work together to build a country where leaders are chosen based on merit, not mediocrity.”
Governor Makinde, represented by Ogunwuyi, commended the NUJ for organizing the event and underscored the importance of the media in strengthening democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He noted that the theme of the Press Week, “Democracy and the Search for Quality Leadership in Nigeria Ahead of the 2027 General Election” — was timely and reflective of the nation’s current leadership challenges.
“As we approach another election cycle, it is essential that the media continues to play its noble role and not as a tool for division, but as a beacon of accountability and civic education, helping citizens make informed choices and holding leaders to the highest standards of integrity,” Makinde said.
He also congratulated the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, on his recognition as Outstanding Legislative Leader of the Year, describing it as a well-deserved honour that reflects the synergy between the Executive and Legislature in promoting good governance.
Makinde further lauded Comrade Ademola Babalola and his team, who will complete their two-term tenure as NUJ executives in December, for their dedication and professionalism over the past six years.
“As your Grand Patron, Governor Seyi Makinde remains committed to maintaining a government that listens, engages, and works hand-in-hand with the media for the collective progress of our dear state,” Ogunwuyi added.
In his remarks, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin urged Nigerian youths not to shy away from politics, noting that they possess the capacity to lead and should take ownership of their future.
“A lot of youths have the capacity to lead; what we need to do is to take ownership of our communities. We must not feel inadequate or incapable. I appeal to the youths to have confidence in themselves and take up leadership roles because they won’t be given to us unless we aspire for them,” he said.
Also speaking, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju and Comrade Bayo Titilola-Sodo commended the NUJ leadership and journalists in Oyo State for their contributions to public enlightenment and support for the government’s developmental agenda.
In his welcome address, NUJ Chairman, Comrade Ademola Babalola, expressed appreciation to the state government and members of the union for their support throughout his tenure. He urged the incoming executive to build on the achievements recorded during his administration.
The event marked the formal opening of the 2025 NUJ Press Week in Oyo State, with a renewed call for ethical journalism, good governance, and quality leadership in Nigeria.
