Leadership is a vital ingredient in shaping the destiny of any nation, but for a country like Nigeria, where the weight of corruption, greed, and selfish ambition weighs heavily on the nation’s progress, the need for responsible leadership has never been more urgent. Jesus Christ, in his wisdom, offers us a timeless lesson on leadership and greatness, rooted in humility and service. This lesson, drawn from the Gospel of Mark (Mark 9:30-37), presents a standard for leadership that transcends time, politics, and culture. The humility and selflessness exemplified by Jesus are the same values our country desperately needs in its leaders today.
As Jesus traveled with his disciples, they argued among themselves about who was the greatest. In response, Jesus placed a child in their midst and told them that anyone who wishes to be first must be the servant of all. He challenged their understanding of leadership, not as a pursuit of power or prestige, but as an opportunity to serve others—particularly the weak, the vulnerable, and those without a voice.
This divine teaching speaks volumes to the situation in Nigeria, where leadership has, for many, become a tool for personal enrichment and self-glorification. Too often, our political leaders see their positions as an opportunity to climb the ladder of power, neglecting the very people who entrusted them with authority. The nation suffers as a result—our communities languish in poverty, insecurity reigns, and our institutions collapse under the weight of neglect. The heart of Nigeria’s struggle lies in the failure of leaders to govern with humility, integrity, and a deep respect for the people they are meant to serve.
Jesus’ model of leadership reminds us that greatness is not in lording over others but in serving them with humility. This same principle must be adopted by our leaders if we are to experience any meaningful transformation. Humility is not a sign of weakness; it is the strength that allows leaders to place the needs of their people above their own. It is what separates those who seek power for selfish gain from those who truly understand the responsibilities of leadership.
Moreover, integrity must become the bedrock of leadership in our nation. It is integrity that builds trust between leaders and the citizens, and without it, leadership becomes hollow. Integrity is more than just keeping promises; it is leading with transparency, being accountable for actions, and refusing to compromise values for personal or political gain. Nigeria is in dire need of leaders who are honest, upright, and guided by a strong moral compass—leaders who do not bow to the pressures of corruption but stand firm in their commitment to the people.
Leadership must also be guided by a deep respect for the citizens. Every Nigerian, regardless of their socio-economic status, deserves to be treated with dignity. Our leaders must recognize that their authority is a sacred trust given to them by the people and for the people. It is not a privilege to be abused but a responsibility to be carried out with a servant’s heart. Respect for the people means ensuring justice, providing for the common good, and protecting the rights and freedoms of all citizens.
This lesson on leadership is not limited to politics alone. It also applies to the Church and other institutions. Unfortunately, even within the Church, we see a growing desire for positions and titles, as some seek elevation to Monsignor, Bishop, or other roles not to serve, but to gain status and honor. This is a dangerous trend that threatens to undermine the very foundation of our Christian calling, which is rooted in service, not power. Leadership in the Church, like in society, should be a reflection of Christ’s humility, integrity, and respect for others.
We cannot deny that the struggle for power and the failure of responsible leadership have left Nigeria divided, weakened, and yearning for true transformation. As St. James rightly says, war and fighting come from the selfish desires within us (James 3:16-4:3). When leaders pursue selfish ambition, they create division, unrest, and strife. But when leaders are motivated by the desire to serve, to lead with integrity, and to respect the dignity of the people, peace and progress naturally follow.
The time has come for us to hold our leaders to the highest standards of accountability. We must demand leadership that is characterized by humility, integrity, and respect for the people. As citizens, we also have a role to play in ensuring that we do not support leaders who seek only their own gain. We must be vigilant and wise in choosing those who will lead us, ensuring that they reflect the values that will move our nation forward.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s future depends on responsible leadership. Leadership that is not driven by selfish ambition but by the desire to serve with humility, integrity, and respect. We must turn away from the pursuit of power for its own sake and embrace the call to serve, just as Jesus taught us. Only then can we hope to see true and lasting change in our nation.
May God bless our leaders and give them the wisdom and strength to lead with humility and integrity, and may He bless Nigeria with the transformation we so desperately need.
