By Femi Samson Adeniran
“Why you lead and the way you lead are important. They define you, your leadership, and ultimately your contribution.”
-John Maxwell.
It is widely known, among other issues of paramount concerns, that a responsible and visionary leader would take cognizance of community service, upgrading human resources, improving the creative skills of his people, et cetera. However, words they say are cheap. Many a politician in this part of the world, as a virtue, being an elected officeholder would naturally assume that they are leaders, meanwhile “leadership is a gift that some possess and others do not”. Therefore, being a leader is natural and not necessarily until you get elected. According to Brent Gleeson in an article on forbes.com “A great leader possess a clear vision, courageous, full of integrity, honesty, humility and clear focus… Great leaders help people reach their goals, are not afraid to hire people that might be better than them and take pride in the accomplishments of those they help along the way
Professor Adeolu Akande, over the years than any other person in Oke-Ogun axis, has assumed this natural position and as a result, lives have been affected positively. Being in public service in the last two decades, he is dedicated to serving his community wholeheartedly in the various facets identified earlier. He is not afraid to help (or hire) smart people as he so much believes in human development. Little wonder he commands respect from his people, amongst his friends and his contemporaries. It’s also worthy of note that the Prof is known for doing the right thing as and when due. For many reasons, “Honesty” and “Diligence” are his watchword (that is not surprising as he was trained in an institution that values character, even before learning). Just like the Eagle, he possesses clear vision. Hence, he is a goal-getter and amongst other positive qualities, a good leader should retain.
Testament to these earlier stated facts about the prolific scholar is the recently concluded empowerment program he facilitated in Oyo State. By the virtue of being the Chairman, Board of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), hundreds of youths were technologically empowered. Personal computers were given to the participants without paying a dime. These microcomputers were also recharged with about fifty thousand naira ( #50,000) worth of data. “melo ni afé kà nínú eyín adípèlé” – just to mention a few.
It is pivotal, however, especially in a society where natural leaders are desired, to take advantage of this “Star Man”, who does wonders effortlessly to serve in higher capacity. From observations from every angle, if every state of the Federation has a devoted leader like him, there is nothing to stop them from achieving mouthwatering successes in all facets of life.
For me and many others, Professor Adeolu Akande’s leadership style is unique and he is a source of inspiration.
