Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasised the need for adequate training of the next generation of African leaders to bring more development to the continent.

Mr Obasanjo spoke on Thursday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, at the graduation of participants of the Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute programmes for school principals, vice-principals and student prefects.

The graduation ceremony was part of the activities planned for the former president’s 89th birthday.

Mr Obasanjo explained that the institute was established to address leadership gaps identified during his more than five decades of public service across Africa.

He noted that disciplined and visionary leadership can transform communities, strengthen institutions, and redirect nations toward sustainable development.

The former president urged the graduating participants to internalise integrity, service, courage, and accountability as core leadership values.

He stressed that the certificates were not trophies but mandates. He noted that graduates must demonstrate responsible leadership in their schools, communities, and institutions.

Mr Obasanjo urged graduates trained in transformational leadership to use their knowledge to positively influence institutions, communities and the continent.

“I founded this institute and supported it because I have seen, across more than five decades of public life, that the greatest challenge facing our nation is not a shortage of money, land, or intellect.

“One leader with vision, discipline, integrity, and courage can transform a community, rescue an institution, and redirect a nation.

“To the men and women receiving certificates today and to those who have passed through this institute, you represent proof that the vision is real, the work is meaningful, and the mission is achievable.

“This institute will grow. Its reach will extend across Africa and beyond. Its standards will rise, and its graduates will go on to lead in government, in business, in civil society, in communities, and in families,” he said.

In his address, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun said that national development depends on strong institutions and leaders who are willing to think beyond immediate interests.

Mr Abiodun stressed that the future of Africa lies in strengthening institutions, investing in knowledge, and building societies that uphold justice, innovation, and unity.

“Beyond Nigeria, Baba, your influence has extended across Africa and the wider international community, particularly in the area of conflict resolution and diplomacy.

“Over the years, you served as a mediator and peace envoy in several regional conflicts, including efforts in Liberia, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

“Young Africans must study figures like Baba, not merely to celebrate their achievements but to understand the principles that guide their decisions,” he said.

In his keynote address, Jean Pillard, the Haitian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of South Africa, highlighted Africa’s journey from historical oppression to renaissance and renewed Pan-African unity.

Mr Pillard described Mr Obasanjo as a “living bridge” linking Africa’s independence generation with today’s quest for continental integration and global African cooperation.

He noted that Africa’s future depended on unity, urging leaders and citizens to rediscover their shared history and collective destiny.

(NAN)