Twenty-five high-potential candidates from the University of Ibadan, Pan African University, Lead City University, and various professional sectors have undergone intensive training in Ubuntu leadership methodology. This initiative aims to prepare young individuals for leadership positions and personal development.
The week-long program, held at the University of Ibadan Conference Centre, focused on Ubuntu and servant leadership principles. Participants, including students and professionals from fields such as the military, media, medical, agriculture, and business sectors, were nominated based on their potential.
Professor Peter Olapegba, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Ibadan, commended the initiative and urged participants to apply the five pillars of Ubuntu—self-knowledge, self-confidence, resilience, empathy, and service—in their communities. Professor Isaac Olawale Albert further highlighted Ubuntu’s similarities with the Yoruba Omoluabi tradition and pledged the department’s collaboration with the Ubuntu Leaders Academy, donating N100,000 to support the program.
Coordinator of the Ubuntu Leaders Academy, Engineer Ako Eyo Oku, noted that the training was backed by the Africa-Europe Foundation and the Oyo State Ministry of Education. The sessions, facilitated by Mr. Peter Komolafe and five other trainers, featured interactive activities, personal reflections, storytelling, and film screenings, all aimed at fostering leadership and social innovation.
Participants were particularly inspired by Nelson Mandela’s story, gaining new perspectives on forgiveness and ethical leadership. The Ubuntu leadership training is part of a one-year intercultural exchange program launched in August 2024, which will conclude in July 2025, fostering leadership development among Nigerian youths.
