In a thought-provoking address at the 2024 Jospong
Leadership Conference, Pastor Dr. Sam Adeyemi, CEO of Global Leadership
Consulting and founder of Daystar Christian Centre-Nigeria, emphasized a
crucial perspective on Africa's challenges. Contrary to the common belief that
financial constraints hinder the continent's progress, Dr. Adeyemi argued that
the root cause lies elsewhere.
According to Dr. Adeyemi, the fundamental issue hindering
Africa's development is not a lack of funds but rather a deficiency in valuing
human life. He passionately urged African leaders to prioritize the well-being
of their citizens, emphasizing that policies and programs should be designed to
benefit everyone, without discrimination.
Addressing the audience on the theme of "Inclusive
Leadership," Dr. Adeyemi highlighted the significance of love in
leadership. He stressed that an inclusive leader is one who cares for others,
placing love at the core of the leader-follower relationship. In doing so, he
urged African leaders to treat every individual with equal dignity, fostering
an environment of unity and shared prosperity.
Acknowledging the challenges that divide the continent, Dr.
Adeyemi called for a collective effort to overcome barriers to innovation and
development. He encouraged leaders to be humble, admitting their imperfections,
as this builds trust among followers.
The conference also featured insights from Mr. Edward Ato
Sarpong, a business and leadership consultant, who identified five enablers for
societal change. Using the 'APPLE' analogy (Anger, Pressure, Possibilities,
Learning, and Environment), he emphasized the need for a conducive environment
and pressure to drive positive change.
Commending the Jospong Group for organizing a leadership
conference for its staff, Dr. Adeyemi lauded the initiative as phenomenal for
an African institution. The conference, attended by leaders and staff of the
Jospong Group of Companies, aimed to promote business excellence through
innovation, sustainability, and empowerment.
As Africa strives for progress and leadership, Dr. Adeyemi's
words serve as a powerful reminder that the continent's challenges go beyond
financial constraints, calling for a collective shift in mindset and a
commitment to valuing every African life.
