Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Attahiru Jega, has warned that Nigeria’s development and democratic stability will remain elusive until leaders at all levels embrace transformative, value-driven leadership that prioritizes national interest over personal gain.
Speaking at the public presentation of a new book titled Transformative Leadership in Practice: NILS under Professor Abubakar Suleiman, Jega said the publication provides a “compelling case study” of how purposeful leadership can rebuild institutions, inspire efficiency, and restore public confidence.
“This book provides empirical evidence that transformative leadership is not theoretical — it works,” Jega said. “Professor Suleiman’s work at the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) shows that when vision meets courage, even a public institution can evolve into a center of excellence.”
Under Professor Suleiman’s six-year tenure, NILDS increased its staff strength by more than 60%, analyzed over 1,300 bills, conducted more than 700 training programmes for lawmakers and civil society actors, and completed its permanent headquarters — a project that had been stalled for over a decade.
Jega noted that such achievements stand in sharp contrast to the stagnation and inefficiency that characterize many public institutions, adding that Nigeria’s reform agenda must begin with changing the mindset and ethics of its leaders.
“We cannot continue to lament the weakness of our institutions while rewarding mediocrity and political patronage,” he said. “Leadership must be guided by service, not self-interest.”
Representing former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Attorney-General of the Federation, Muhammed Bello Adoke (SAN), described Professor Suleiman as an “institution builder” whose leadership of the National Planning Commission brought professionalism and structure to national policy coordination.
“Although his appointment came toward the end of our administration, Professor Suleiman’s impact was immediate,” Adoke said. “He brought reform, efficiency, and accountability — values our public institutions urgently need today.”
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, noted that Nigeria’s crisis is not one of intellect but of integrity, commending Suleiman for demonstrating that moral leadership remains possible in public life.
“He is a man of simplicity, empathy, and discipline — a professor in leadership as much as in politics,” the monarch said. “Nigeria’s renewal depends on leaders who embody those same values.”
Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan recalled working closely with Suleiman as Chair of the NILDS Governing Council, describing him as “a reformer who turned ideas into action.”
“We created new departments like the Institute for Legislative Security Analysis and the Democracy Lab,” Lawan said. “His tenure redefined NILDS as a hub of knowledge, professionalism, and innovation.”
Representing Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Special Adviser on Job Creation said Suleiman’s legacy lies in his commitment to nurturing future leaders and embedding institutional resilience.
“His brand of leadership shows how mentorship and vision can strengthen governance and national development,” the aide said.
Jega’s remarks turned what began as a 60th birthday tribute into a national reflection on leadership reform. He urged political elites, public servants, and policymakers to emulate the NILDS model — where institutional performance is driven by purpose, not politics.
“Nigeria’s transformation will not come from slogans or policies alone,” Jega concluded. “It will come from leaders who, like Professor Suleiman, turn institutions into instruments of service rather than symbols of power.”
