By DAYO ADESULU
Abeokuta, Nigeria — March 19, 2026 — David Oyedepo has reaffirmed his commitment to leadership development in Africa following a high-level visit to the Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute, where he pledged strategic collaboration to raise a new generation of transformational leaders across the continent.
The visit, which took place at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, brought together key figures in governance, education, and leadership development. It also highlighted growing efforts to tackle what experts increasingly describe as Africa’s leadership deficit.
Oyedepo Endorses OOLI’s Vision for Africa’s Leadership Future
During the visit, Oyedepo, founder of and Chancellor of Covenant University, commended for establishing the institute, describing it as a timely intervention.During the visit, Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide and Chancellor of Covenant University, commended Olusegun Obasanjo for establishing the institute, describing it as a timely intervention.
He stressed that the institute represents a strategic response to the urgent need for values-driven leadership across Africa. According to him, OOLI’s approach could help realign emerging leaders with principles that promote integrity, accountability, and long-term impact.
Moreover, Oyedepo pointed out that leadership challenges across sectors—politics, business, and civil society—require solutions rooted in character and competence. He noted that Africa’s development trajectory depends heavily on the quality of its leaders.
Experiential Learning Model Gains Praise
A major highlight of the visit was Oyedepo’s endorsement of OOLI’s experiential learning model. Unlike conventional academic frameworks, the institute draws heavily on real-life experiences from seasoned practitioners.
He particularly applauded the institute’s Board of Trustees, which includes former African presidents from multiple countries. According to him, this structure provides a rare opportunity for participants to learn directly from individuals who have navigated complex leadership environments.
Consequently, the institute’s training goes beyond theory. It integrates practical case studies, governance lessons, and insights from decades of leadership in public service, diplomacy, and enterprise.
Oyedepo described this approach as “powerful and authentic,” adding that it equips participants with tested strategies rather than abstract concepts.
Obasanjo Identifies Leadership Deficit as Africa’s Core Challenge
In his remarks, Obasanjo reiterated that leadership deficit remains Africa’s most pressing challenge. He argued that without effective leadership, progress in economic development, governance, and social stability will remain limited.
He explained that OOLI was intentionally designed to address this gap from the grassroots level. The institute targets a broad spectrum of participants, including student leaders, young professionals, and senior executives.
Importantly, Obasanjo highlighted recent training sessions organized for student leaders at the University of Lagos. He said the programme had already begun to transform leadership culture within the institution, improving governance and representation among students.
As a result, the institute is positioning itself as a pipeline for nurturing responsible leaders from an early stage.
Expansion Plans Target Northern Nigeria
Meanwhile, OOLI is expanding its reach to ensure inclusivity across Nigeria’s regions. Speaking on behalf of the institute’s leadership, Prof. Adedeji Daramola announced plans to extend programmes to Northern Nigeria.
The initiative will involve collaboration with youth-focused institutions, including engagement with the Gombe State Youth Parliament. The goal is to deliver intensive leadership workshops for students, young professionals, and emerging leaders.
According to Daramola, this move reflects OOLI’s broader commitment to democratizing access to quality leadership education. He emphasized that both Northern and Southern Nigeria must benefit equally from such initiatives.
Executive Leadership Programme Set to Launch
In addition, the institute is preparing to launch a three-month executive training programme on transformational leadership. The programme, scheduled to begin on March 28, 2026, will take place in Abeokuta.
It is expected to attract a diverse group of participants, including chief executives, senior managers, diplomats, and public office holders from within and outside Nigeria.
Notably, the programme will feature international faculty such as Ameenah Gurib-Fakim and Benedict Oramah. Their involvement underscores the institute’s commitment to delivering globally relevant yet locally grounded leadership training.
A Shared Commitment to Africa’s Transformation
As the visit concluded, Oyedepo reiterated his support for the institute’s mission. He pledged to contribute his experience in ministry, education, and institution-building to strengthen OOLI’s programmes.
Furthermore, he assured continued collaboration through mentorship, partnership, and resource sharing. His endorsement adds significant momentum to OOLI’s efforts to shape Africa’s leadership future.
Ultimately, the visit reinforced a shared vision between both leaders: building a generation equipped with moral clarity, strategic thinking, and practical competence.
With initiatives spanning grassroots leadership training to executive development, the Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute appears poised to play a central role in redefining leadership standards across Africa.
About OOLI
The Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute, established in 2023, focuses on developing ethical and transformational leaders through programmes in governance, business, diplomacy, and sustainability. Its model combines mentorship, experiential learning, and global expertise to address Africa’s leadership challenges.
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