Marwa’s leadership style as a research module

In the annals of Nigeria’s public service, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) stands out as a paragon of effective leadership, dedication, and integrity. His multifaceted career, encompassing military governance, diplomatic service, and his transformative role as Chairman and CEO of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), offers a rich case study in effective governance and nation-building. As Marwa celebrated his 71st birthday, there is a compelling argument for incorporating his leadership ethos into the academic curricula of Nigerian universities, particularly within the fields of political science, public administration, and human resource management.

Marwa’s leadership is marked by three fundamental attributes: forthrightness, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to public service. His tenure as the Military Administrator of Lagos State and his current role at the NDLEA underscores his unique ability to manage complex operations efficiently and effectively. These attributes not only set him apart but also make his leadership a valuable model for academic examination.

Currently, Nigerian universities predominantly focus on Western political thinkers such as John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Karl Marx. While these figures have significantly shaped political thought, it is equally vital for Nigerian institutions to study their own leaders who have made impactful contributions to governance. Marwa epitomizes this homegrown leadership, reflecting the unique challenges and opportunities within Nigeria and Africa.

Incorporating case studies on leaders like Marwa into academic curricula would provide students with practical insights into modern governance. His leadership style, characterized by a balance of firmness and empathy, along with his results-oriented approach, offers valuable lessons for future leaders. Marwa’s career provides a practical framework for navigating the complexities of Nigeria’s political and administrative landscape, making his leadership a critical subject for academic exploration.

Marwa’s career includes several notable achievements that offer instructive lessons for students. His tenure as the Military Administrator of Lagos State from 1996 to 1999 was marked by significant reforms and infrastructural developments that have had a lasting impact on the city. Marwa’s administration is remembered for its innovative initiatives, such as the introduction of the “Keke Marwa” tricycle transport system. This initiative provided affordable transportation to millions of Lagosians and continues to be a vital part of the city’s public transport network.

Under Marwa’s leadership, Lagos experienced substantial improvements in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and security. His administration tackled the chaotic state of public transportation, enhanced revenue generation, and improved public service delivery. These achievements not only made a significant difference in Lagos but also served as a model for effective governance in other Nigerian states. Students of political science and public administration can glean valuable lessons from Marwa’s approach to managing Lagos’s complexities and implementing impactful reforms.

Perhaps the most remarkable chapter of Marwa’s career is his current role as Chairman and CEO of the NDLEA. Upon assuming this role, the NDLEA was struggling with inefficiency and lack of direction. Marwa’s leadership has brought about a dramatic transformation, earning global recognition for the agency’s efforts in combating drug trafficking and abuse. His work at the NDLEA has positioned Nigeria as a key player in Africa’s counter-narcotics operations, with international acclaim from regions such as Europe and America for reducing the inflow of illicit drugs into their territories.

Marwa’s success at the NDLEA is not solely due to his personal efforts. He demonstrated exceptional leadership by assembling a competent management team and creating directorates aligned with his vision for the agency. His strategic appointments and ability to inspire his team to embrace the agency’s mission have been crucial to the success of the NDLEA’s reforms. The remarkable progress achieved within a relatively short timeframe highlights Marwa’s charismatic leadership, vision, and commitment to nation-building.

Marwa’s consistent vision across different roles further underscores why his leadership is deserving of academic study. Whether during his impactful reforms in Lagos or his transformative work at the NDLEA, Marwa’s approach has been driven by a deep commitment to public welfare. His ability to inspire his team, implement reforms, and achieve tangible results serves as a powerful example for students in political science and human resource management.

Additionally, Marwa’s international recognition for combating drug trafficking underscores his effective global partnerships. His collaborations with global drug enforcement agencies highlight the importance of international cooperation in leadership, providing essential lessons for students of diplomacy and international relations. Marwa’s ability to forge strong international partnerships and enhance Nigeria’s role in global counter-narcotics efforts exemplifies effective leadership in a globalized context.

Studying Marwa’s career provides more than just an appreciation for his achievements; it offers practical, homegrown examples of leadership rooted in integrity, discipline, and commitment to nation-building. In Nigeria, where public service is often characterised by inefficiency and corruption, Marwa’s career offers a refreshing reminder of the possibilities inherent in principled leadership.

In a country where many young people are disillusioned by the pursuit of material wealth over public service, Marwa’s leadership offers a counter-narrative. His career demonstrates that effective public service is about using one’s position to serve the people rather than seeking personal enrichment. This lesson is crucial for the younger generation, who need real-life examples of effective leadership and the importance of long-term thinking and integrity.

Furthermore, studying Marwa’s leadership could inspire a new generation of Nigerian leaders who are grounded in the values of integrity and dedication to public service.

His career provides a roadmap for navigating the complexities of governance, demonstrating how to address challenges with innovation, resilience, and a focus on the greater good. Marwa’s example could also help reshape the narrative around leadership in Nigeria, showing that true success in public service comes from a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others rather than personal gain.

Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) represents a beacon of hope for what leadership in Nigeria can and should look like. His enduring contributions, from his impactful tenure as Military Administrator of Lagos State to his transformative role at the NDLEA, offer valuable governance and public service lessons. It is time for Nigerian universities to embrace and teach the leadership principles demonstrated by Marwa.
Onwubiko is head of the Human Rights Writers Association Of Nigeria and was National Commissioner of the National Human Rights Commission Of Nigeria.