6th November, 2022
Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the House of Representatives, says Nigeria requires leaders who will groom the next generation to take over leadership responsibilities.
He stated this on Saturday during the graduation of the first 74 Legislative Mentorship Initiative trainees at the National Assembly.
According to Gbajabiamila, the absence of such a leadership transition remained a setback for the country’s growth.
The Speaker emphasized the importance of correcting the anomaly so that the country can draw from a pool of young leaders at any time.
“I have always said the lack or failure of leaders to mentor the young ones is the bane of society. That is why we introduced the LMI, a robust programme to equip our young ones for the leadership tasks ahead, for governance and for the good of our country.”
Gbajabiamila noted that the timing of the training was significant, as it came at a time when the world was facing increasing challenges that would necessitate people with exceptional skills and knowledge, particularly among the youth.
“Distinguished fellows, you are graduating at a time of great uncertainty in the world.
“We are in a historical moment of great danger, and abounding opportunities brought on by technological advancements, accelerated globalisation, and the reformation of the global economic and political order.
“As I told you when you began this programme, it is clear to anybody that the old equilibrium is unsettled and the rules of the old order no longer apply. What is less clear is what happens next.
“Yet, you must count yourselves fortunate because, throughout recorded history, it is in times like this that men and women of talent and ability write their names in gold for all generations to witness.”