Great leaders are not bound by genetics or circumstances, but rather by the attributes that define their character: a clarity of purpose that guides their actions, a deep-rooted humanity that connects them to those they serve, a sense of equity and justice that upholds the principles of fairness, and an intellect that illuminates the path forward.

Gboyega Nasir Isiaka – GNI has earned his place among the pantheon of visionary leaders who have shaped the course of history, including Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello and Obafemi Awolowo. These remarkable individuals, despite their diverse backgrounds and formidable challenges, left an indelible mark on the world.

Like these great leaders, GNI is a scion of strength, conviction, and adaptability, qualities that have defined his journey in politics. His solidity of character, firm convictions, and ability to navigate evolving times have set him apart as a true leader. Without equivocation, he personifies and exudes an uncommon and incredible humaneness and kindness, a quality that has touched the lives of all who have crossed his path.

Reflecting upon the profound wisdom imparted by the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, who pondered the true essence of a life well-lived, one cannot help but celebrate the remarkable journey of the investment banker as he celebrates the milestone of his 62nd year.

Plato’s allegory of the cave, a tale of individuals shackled in a dark cavern, believing the shadows cast on the wall to be reality, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of examining one’s life and challenging preconceived notions. Just as Plato’s enlightened prisoner breaks free from the chains of ignorance and ascends into the light of truth, GNI has broken free from the limitations of a narrow perspective and embarked on a lifelong journey of growth, wisdom and service. Through his example and leadership, he inspires others to reach their highest potential and create positive change.

And having traversed the winding road of life with grace and determination, it is only fitting that we pause to celebrate the sojourn of this quintessential leader. For it is in the examination and appreciation of lives such as his that we find the inspiration to break free from the shadows of complacency and embrace the light of truth, justice, and a commitment to the betterment of humanity.

This holds true for Gboyega Nasir Isiaka’s leadership. Like a skilled artist, he wields the brush of leadership with a deft hand, painting a vibrant mural of hope and possibility. His vision is not merely a fleeting dream but a powerful and tangible reality that he brings to life with every stroke of his brush.

He understands that true leadership is not about providing sustenance alone; it is about nourishing the very soul of a constituency, cultivating a collective spirit that thrives on the shared hopes and aspirations of its people. This ability to inspire and motivate others through vision, action and example is what makes Isiaka’s leadership so transformational and enduring.

In the words of the great Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe, “A man who calls his kinsmen to a feast does not do so to save them from starving.” Isiaka, like the wise leaders in Achebe’s literary masterpiece, “Things Fall Apart,” recognizes that authentic governance requires more than just meeting basic needs.

It is about convening people behind a common purpose, a purpose that resonates with their innermost desires and aspirations, a purpose that taps into the wells of their collective strengths, channeling them into a powerful stream that uplifts society as a whole.

In his eight months in the National Assembly, Isiaka has taken significant steps to bring to fruition his 15-Year Development Plan for Yewa North/ Imeko-Afon Federal Constituency. This plan was designed to create an optimistic, self-confident, and prosperous sub-region where opportunities exist for all. He has sponsored legislation to establish an Agro-Processing Export Free Trade Zone within the constituency, which will serve as a hub for promoting agricultural exports and food production.

Additionally, he has championed the creation of a Technical and Vocational Institute to equip the youth with the skills needed for the abundant technical jobs of the future.

GNI’s commitment to progress extends beyond mere legislation. He has successfully convinced private investors to fund large-scale rice and cotton cultivation in the constituency, creating thousands of jobs in farming and textile factories, while catalyzing rapid growth in the agricultural sector.

Just recently, he unveiled an Education Support Interventions Plan as part of the 15-year development plan for the constituency. The five-pillar plan addresses the critical needs of the educational sector with a harmonious blend of practical solutions and visionary thinking. From tackling teacher shortages to enhancing infrastructure, expanding scholarship opportunities, promoting technical and vocational training and nurturing moral values, this plan represents the federal lawmaker’s profound understanding of the power of education, recognizing it as the cornerstone upon which nations are built.

Like the great Nelson Mandela, who once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” he has taken up the mantle of shaping a new generation of leaders, empowering them with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of our ever-evolving world.
Born near the border with Benin Republic, Isiaka knows the unique challenges faced by Nigeria’s border towns. Like Odysseus navigating through the shadows of the Cyclops’ cave, he has skillfully maneuvered through the perilous straits and rocky coasts of these marginalized settlements.

Prioritizing their issues within the greater framework of national development, he has tirelessly campaigned on their behalf to eliminate the obstacles they encounter, enabling them to partake in greater prosperity.

As Nigeria’s future prosperity depends upon gainful employment and the realization of youth potential, GNI has become a tireless champion of technical and vocational education across the nation. His efforts aim to fuel extensive job-rich private sector growth, enabling both urban capitals and rural villages to fully participate in the modern economy.

GNI’s outstanding performance in public service can be attributed to his extensive and remarkable career in the corporate world. His journey began at Joseph Akande & Co. Chartered Accountants after completing the NYSC program, where he engaged in statutory audits and management consultancy for two years. Upon joining Lion Bank in 1989, he excelled in the Internal Control and Audit division, playing a key role in enhancing internal controls. Moving on to ICON LTD in 1990, GNI focused on financial advisory and capital issues for six years before joining Lead Merchant Bank Plc in February 1996. During his seven-year tenure at Lead Bank, he advanced to Assistant General Manager and Group Head of Investment Banking, overseeing diverse corporate finance transactions and spearheading successful initiatives such as securing the best Issuing House award in Nigeria for three consecutive years. His impactful corporate career concluded in 2003 when he transitioned to serve in the Ogun State government.

Gboyega Nasir Isiaka was born in February 1962 into the family of late Prince Tijani Adebowale Isiaka and late Alhaja Adijat Agbeke Isiaka of Remo Quarters, Imeko in Imeko Afon Local government area of Ogun state.

As we celebrate world GNI day, we are reminded of the words of the poet William Butler Yeats: “The best lack all conviction, while the worst are full of passionate intensity.” GNI embodies the former, a man of quiet conviction and firm resolve.
As he is wont to say “My life is an open book that can be read. In all I do, i always strive to exemplify hardwork, capacity, competence, honour, dignity, integrity, vision, contentment and unblemished antecedents. It was Henry David Thoreau that remarked, “I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestionable ability of a man to elevate his life by a conscious endeavour”. Indeed, I have taken a conscious endeavour to add value to my generation and as I love to say, “Each person must strive to leave his generation better than he met it”. This is exactly what I am striving at.”

Happy 62nd birthday, Prince Gboyega Nasir Isiaka. Yours is a life that epitomizes the essence of great leadership – a life that transcends the confines of time and space, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and uplift countless lives.

May this milestone serve as a reminder of the profound impact that a single life can have upon the course of history, and may your remarkable contributions continue to inspire generations to come, guiding them towards a future where the promise of a better tomorrow is not merely a dream, but a reality that we collectively strive to achieve.

Femi Peters is a Special Assistant on Media and Communication to Prince Gboyega Nasir Isiaka