Nigeria’s quest for sustainable growth and national renewal continues to be undermined by weak institutions, compromised values, and the pursuit of short-term personal gains, stakeholders have warned.

Speaking at the National Leadership Dialogue, political, business, and civil society leaders stressed that integrity, resilience, and values-based leadership, supported by strong institutional systems, are essential to addressing the country’s deepening social, economic, and governance challenges.

The dialogue was convened by the African Leadership Initiative West Africa (ALIWA).

Addressing participants, ALIWA President, Mr. Soji Apampa, said leadership in uncertain times must be anchored on integrity, clarity of purpose, and decisive action.

He emphasised that restoring public trust and safeguarding national resources require leaders willing to act on principle rather than expediency.

Apampa described the National Leadership Dialogue as a platform designed to nurture a new generation of leaders across Nigeria and West Africa who are committed to long-term societal impact rather than short-term political or economic gains.

Reinforcing this message, the Chairman of African Capital Alliance and former Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Okechukwu Enelamah, identified integrity as the ultimate test of leadership.

He observed that while many leaders profess strong values, few consistently uphold them when faced with pressure, vested interests, or personal risk.

Enelamah warned that unethical leadership flourishes in weak systems where power is unchecked and accountability is absent, noting that corruption often rewards individuals while imposing heavy costs on society.

He called for robust institutional reforms, enhanced transparency, and effective accountability mechanisms that align incentives with ethical conduct.

According to him, anti-corruption efforts can only succeed when processes are open, detection is certain, and consequences are predictable.

Describing leadership as stewardship, Enelamah said sustainable national transformation requires not only personal integrity but also systems that make ethical behaviour the practical and rewarding choice.

He urged reforms that protect principled leaders, promote transparency, and empower citizens to hold leaders accountable without fear or favour.