The monarch said this yesterday, during an interactive session with fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) in his palace at Iga Iduganran, Lagos.
Oba Akiolu, drawing experience as a growing child, said his parents, like others, orally told children not just about the values and culture of their people, but also worked to ensure that the children imbibe those values and culture.
The monarch, while advising the visiting fellows about leadership, said that any position one occupies has a beginning and an ending, and each leader must prepare himself or herself for when the process will end.
He said that as a king, he usually tells his children that though they are sons and daughters of a king today, a time will come when they will be brothers and sisters to a king because no matter what, one day he would cease being king.
He also said that not just leaders but every individual needs to be close to God, saying: “But if you find yourself in a position of leadership, I will say you must be very prayerful.
“Leadership without culture is empty. Leaders must be grounded in their heritage to lead with wisdom, sincerity and a deep understanding of the people they serve.”
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of LJLA, Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, briefed the king about the academy and the importance of the visit to leaders and personalities like him.
“This session reinforces the fact that leadership goes beyond policies and governance; it is also about values and identity. Our fellows have gained invaluable lessons that will shape their leadership journeys. The visit to the palace is a key highlight of the Fellows’ leadership development programme, providing them with deeper insights into the historical and cultural pillars of leadership in Lagos.”
In her vote of thanks on behalf of his colleagues, one of the fellows, Evelyn Ayansola, said that the interaction with the monarch was very enlightening and educative for her. “This experience has broadened our understanding of leadership and the role culture plays in governance. We are leaving here inspired to lead with integrity and a renewed commitment to service,” Ayansola stated.
