Throughout history, power has been both a blessing and a curse. It is neither inherently good nor evil but a tool shaped by the character and vision of its wielder. In Nigeria, over six decades since independence, political power has been recycled across leaders, yet the nation remains burdened by underdevelopment. Why has power failed to yield transformation? What is the true essence of power? And why must Nigerian leaders today rise to fulfill a divine and historic mandate for the nation?
The True Essence of Power
Power is not an end but a means to achieve collective greatness. It is the capacity to bring order, inspire hope, and create opportunities for human flourishing. Leaders who understand this truth wield power with wisdom, compassion, and foresight. They see beyond the present, recognizing their role as stewards of a legacy that will outlive them.
Lessons from Phenomenal Leaders Across History
Great leaders across civilizations have demonstrated the profound use of power for the greater good:
- Pharaoh Hatshepsut of Ancient Egypt
Hatshepsut ruled as one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs. She used power to build infrastructure, expand trade routes, and foster peace. Her reign left Egypt prosperous and culturally enriched, demonstrating that power is best utilized in service of the people. - Emperor Ashoka of India
Once a ruthless conqueror, Ashoka transformed after witnessing the horrors of war. He embraced non-violence and used power to spread the principles of Buddhism, focusing on societal welfare, justice, and education. His reign laid the foundation for a harmonious Indian civilization. - Abraham Lincoln of the United States
Lincoln used his presidency to abolish slavery and preserve the Union during the American Civil War. Despite enormous resistance, his commitment to justice and human dignity reshaped the moral compass of a nation. - Nelson Mandela of South Africa
Mandela’s leadership during apartheid and his subsequent presidency exemplified forgiveness, unity, and reconciliation. He understood that power is not for vengeance but for healing and rebuilding a fractured society.
Lessons for Nigerian Political Leaders
- Serve, Don’t Exploit
Leadership is a sacred trust, not an opportunity for personal gain. Leaders must recognize their duty to empower the people and foster development. - Adopt a Long-Term Vision
Exceptional leaders think in terms of generations, not election cycles. Nigerian leaders must lay the groundwork for a modern, unified, and prosperous Nigeria. - Build Institutions, Not Personal Empires
The strength of a nation lies in its institutions. Leaders must prioritize building structures that uphold justice, transparency, and innovation. - Embrace the Divine Mandate
Nigeria’s destiny is to become a global archetype of unity and civilization. This requires leadership driven by purpose, guided by wisdom, and fueled by an unshakable commitment to humanity.
A Warning to the Leaders of Today
The time of complacency and corruption is over. The old Nigeria, riddled with mediocrity and exploitation, is dead. The emergence of a New Nigeria is unstoppable – driven by a divine mandate and the will of its people. This New Nigeria will rise, uniting its citizens under a shared vision and reclaiming its role as a beacon for Africa and the world.
Leaders who cling to the failed paradigms of the past must heed this warning: the forces of history, destiny, and divine will are against you. You cannot stop the tide of renewal. Those who resist will be swept away, for Nigeria has a purpose far greater than individual ambitions.
Conclusion: The New Nigeria Must Rise
The New Nigeria is not just an idea – it is an inevitability. A nation destined to unify humanity and embody a universal civilization cannot remain dormant. Leaders must choose to either align themselves with this divine calling or be remembered as relics of a failed past.
The time is now. The world is watching. Nigeria must rise to fulfill its purpose, and its leaders must rise with it – or be swept aside by the tides of change.
Yours for Nigeria as a Global Leader.
Abdulrahaman is the Founder/President,
Initiative for Discovery of Nigeria Heritage and Endowment (IDNHE).
Project Coordinator,
National Policy Dialogue.
www.nationalpolicydialogue.org