The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, emphasized the importance of Nigerian leaders studying and adopting the exemplary leadership traits exhibited by former President Umaru Musa Yar’adua. Olukoyede made this assertion during the inaugural President Umaru Musa Yar’adua International Leadership Conference and Awards held in Abuja on Monday.
Highlighting Yar’adua’s legacy, Olukoyede praised the late president for his unwavering commitment to integrity and transparency, qualities he deemed essential for effective leadership. He stressed that Yar’adua’s leadership style served as a blueprint for aspiring leaders to follow, emphasizing the pivotal role of moral and ethical principles in fostering national development.
Addressing the theme of “Moral and Ethical Leadership; Antidote to National Development,” Olukoyede, represented by the Director of Public Affairs of the Commission, CE Wilson Uwujaren, lamented the inadequate enforcement of laws aimed at promoting integrity in Nigeria. He underscored the need for greater adherence to these laws to enhance the integrity quotient among Nigerians.
Olukoyede reiterated the EFCC’s commitment to upholding the values championed by Yar’adua, namely integrity and transparency, as pillars of its operations. He emphasized that the Commission identified with Yar’adua’s legacy and aimed to uphold these principles in its fight against corruption.
Former President of Nigeria, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, also lauded Yar’adua for his patriotism and dedication to the welfare of Nigerians. Reflecting on Yar’adua’s leadership tenure, Gowon commended his sincerity and concern for the well-being of the populace, citing instances from Yar’adua’s time as governor of Katsina State.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State expressed gratitude to the organizers for preserving Yar’adua’s legacy and urged Nigerian leaders to remain steadfast in their commitment to advancing the nation. He encouraged a collective belief in Nigeria’s potential for progress, citing Yar’adua as an exemplar of hope and national unity.
