The dearth of ideology and clear-cut policies in Nigerian politics and governance is a lon

Dr Adewale Kolapo Kareem (AKK). AKK is a gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State in 2027.

I think we have all agreed that effective leadership is the backbone of any successful nation or organisation. Without it, progress is impossible, and chaos often ensues. Leadership demands a great deal from those who take on the responsibility, it requires a blend of vision, strategy, and people skills. As someone deeply passionate about leadership and governance, I firmly believe that leaders must prioritise the needs of their people above all else.

In our country, we have numerous individuals holding public offices, from senators and ministers to governors. However, the titles they hold are meaningless if the people they serve do not feel their positive impact. The essence of public service is to make a tangible difference in the society, not merely to occupy a position or wield power. There are many qualified and capable individuals who could make a real difference, and it’s time we started recognising and empowering them. After all, leadership is not about personal aggrandizement, but about serving others and leaving a surviving legacy that inspires future generations.

My own motivation for seeking a leadership position stems from a genuine desire to see into the possibilities of change and truly strengthen future generations. I’m not driven by personal ambition or a thirst for power; instead, I’m passionate about crafting policies and programs that truly benefit my community. Of course, this means sacrificing some of the comforts of a private life, but I’m willing to make that trade-off for the greater good. As the saying goes, “leadership is not about being in charge, but about taking care of those in your charge.” I am strongly committed to embody this principle in my own leadership journey.

In the end, leadership is not just a title or a position; it’s a mindset and a commitment to serving others. It’s about putting the needs of your people first, being accountable for your actions, and leading with integrity. When leaders prioritise the well-being of their citizens, everyone benefits; the leader feels the comfort, as well the people he serves. As I see it, the true test of leadership lies not in the titles we hold, but in the positive impact we make on the lives of those we serve. Moreover, effective leadership is about striking a balance between making tough decisions and being compassionate. It’s about being a visionary, a strategist, and a unifier.

In the coming days, I’ll be returning home, to Nigeria, where I’ll be diving headfirst into the fray of politics; engaging in various political activities, consultations and strategy meetings. But before I do, I’ll be taking a brief detour to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah (lesser hajj), a sacred pilgrimage in Islam. I will be praying for our dear country and Oyo state, and personally pray for guidance, protection, and wisdom, I’ll also be asking for a healthy dose of patience and perseverance – after all, moving round the complexities of Nigerian politics will require a miracle or two! I’m ready to roll up my sleeves, listen to the concerns of my people in person, and work tirelessly to address them. It’s time for a new era of leadership in Oyo state, one that prioritises the needs of the many over the interests of the few.

Oyo 2027
AKK 2027
Governor 2027
AKK! Aseyori ni tiwa.
AKK!! Ajose Ajoje
AKK!!! A Task that must be done.

gstanding issue. Nigerian political parties have struggled with ideological inconsistencies, resulting in a poverty of ideology. This lack of clear direction has hindered the country’s development and democratic growth. Many people have acquired political power without having a blueprint of what exactly to do with the power. Nigeria has had many accidental public office holders who just struggle to procure political power and start a trial and error process. Money politics has become a significant factor in Nigerian elections, overshadowing policy debates and ideological discussions. This emphasis on wealth rather than ideas undermines the democratic process. 

The absence of strong institutions has also allowed personal interests to dominate political discourse, further eroding the role of ideology. Without clear policies and ideologies, Nigeria’s national development has suffered, with socio-political and economic crises persisting. The absence of ideology has left citizens disconnected from the political process, fostering apathy and disillusionment. Fostering policy discussions and debates can help shift focus from wealth to ideas. To address Nigeria’s governance challenges, it’s essential to prioritize ideology and policy over wealth and personal interests.

Dr. Adewale Kolapo Kareem is a man with a difference. He has written many times about policies and ideas required to move the nation, especially Oyo State, forward. His grasp of the issues and solutions is phenomenal. Being close to the grassroots, he understands the feelings of the people and what they need to improve their lives. He has been involved in youth development and capacity building, so he has an eye for the next generation. AKK does not just want political office; he knows how to use it for the benefit of humanity and the grace of God. This is the AKK advantage.