Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has called for a shift towards service-driven leadership in politics and governance, describing it as both an imperative and a privilege.
Osinbajo made the call on Friday while delivering the keynote address at the Rotary International District 9141 Conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Speaking on the theme, “The Magic of Connection: The Imperative and Privilege of Service,” he emphasized that political leadership should focus on delivering basic rights such as quality education, accessible healthcare, and social security to all citizens.
Citing historical precedence, he praised Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s implementation of free basic education in Western Nigeria, which, despite its financial implications, demonstrated a model of selfless and impactful governance.
Osinbajo also reflected on his involvement in crafting the All Progressives Congress (APC) manifesto in 2014. He recalled the key debate around embedding a strong social investment agenda, which later birthed initiatives like the national school feeding programme and TraderMoni.
“The true measure of any nation is how it treats its most vulnerable,” he said, stressing that Africa’s challenge lies not in a lack of talent but in the underutilization of its vast human resources. He described corruption as a major impediment to the continent’s development.
Addressing the elite, Osinbajo urged introspection, asking them to assess whether their accomplishments were rooted in genuine service to others. He concluded by calling for better fiscal policies and budget prioritization aimed at improving the welfare of disadvantaged populations.
