By Yemi Olajutemu
Ado Ekiti
For Nigeria to progress and record actual and somatic development, there is need to have Consensus Builders whose mindset and approaches encompasses moral values, dignity, integrity and meritocracy as well as transcend biases of any kind.
This was the focal point of discussants at the second day valedictory lecture to mark the end of tenure of Governor Kayode Fayemi Administration in office.
The event was held at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic & Conventional Centre in Ado Ekiti.
Speaking on the topic: JKF-Consensus Builder in a Divided Polity, the panelists who included, the DG, Development Agenda for West Commission, Mr Seye Oyeleye, Senator Abiodun Olujimi, former Ekiti Head of Service, Mrs Peju Babafemi former Chief of Staff, Ogun State, Mr Kayode Samuel observed that Nigeria over the years had faced lots of challenges due to bad leadership.
The Speakers said responsible leaders with good virtues and values are needed to move the nation forward and described Governor Fayemi as one of such development practitioners, assessing his achievements in different positions occupied.
According to Senator Abiodun Olujimi and Former and Ekiti State first female Head of Service, Mrs Peju Babafemi, to build consensus leaders goes beyond political leanings. They maintained that it requires objectivity and Subjectivity in making the right judgement and stand on issues.
They maintained that to focused leaders must have clear ideas of the challenges facing the country and the solutions they demand.
Other panelists who included, Dr Ibbo Mandaza from Harare, Zimbabwe talked on JKF: Living the Pan-African Ideal included,
Saying right thinking leaders with good ideals are needed in the helms of affairs across the African states, the discussants opined that, there is need for such leaders to come together for a common goal with a view to ensuring good governance and effective democracy.
There were contributions on the topics discussed at the forum from participants.