Honourable Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has emphasised the potential of technological innovation as a crucial strategy for addressing corruption within public service. He pointed out that reducing human-to-human contact can significantly diminish opportunities for compromise, ultimately paving the way for a more efficient and transparent governance framework.

He affirmed that Nigeria can only overcome its barriers of underdevelopment and economic challenges by resolving inefficiencies in public service.

In his keynote address titled “Transforming Africa’s Public Sector,” delivered during the graduation ceremony for the AIG Public Leadership program’s Class of 2025, Tunji-Ojo celebrated the achievements of 69 graduates from 7 different countries who are poised to make a meaningful impact in public service.

The minister underscored the importance of Inter-Agency Collaboration, advocating for an integrated governance structure where agencies can seamlessly share information and align their operational goals and service delivery strategies. This collaborative spirit is essential for driving collective progress.

Tunji-Ojo further highlighted that true leadership is not merely a matter of holding a position of authority but rather the ability to envision and implement systems that are more effective than those currently in place. He encouraged the graduating cohort to break free from conventional norms and embrace innovative solutions.

He stated, “Leadership transcends the legacy of what you inherit. A broken system presents a unique opportunity for transformative change. Many individuals struggle not due to a lack of resources or training but because they have yet to conquer their internal limitations.”

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, chairman and founder, spoke about the purpose of the AIG Public Leaders program, which is to equip emerging leaders in the public sector with the necessary tools, mindsets, and networks to drive substantive transformation across Africa.

He emphasised the urgent need for leaders who prioritise long-term institutional health over short-term gains, embrace collaboration, and view reform as an actionable commitment rather than mere rhetoric.

He urged the graduates to focus on making a tangible impact: “When you return to your roles, reflect on this vital question: Has your service to citizens improved? Are processes more efficient, institutions more resilient, and lives more unified as a result of your contributions? If the answer is no, then the value of your position and training diminishes. You are not here to simply maintain the status quo; your mission is to drive change.”

Aigboje concluded with a call to action: “Real change comes through disciplined execution. Identify what delivers true value to citizens, eliminate obstructions, make necessary trade-offs, and consistently strive for excellence so that your positive impact resonates throughout the community.”