Africa’s Leaders Urged To Prioritise Good Governance, Innovation for Continent’s Prosperity

Mary Nnah

A call to action has been issued to African leaders to prioritise good governance, innovation, and technology to drive the continent’s prosperity. The call was made at the Africa Future Leadership Conference and Awards in Lagos, which drew delegates from across the continent.

The conference, themed “Towards A Prosperous Africa: Leveraging Leadership, Technology And Innovation,” brought together delegates from across Africa to discuss the continent’s development trajectory. The conference also highlighted the critical role leadership plays in shaping Africa’s future.

In his keynote address, Rev. Dr. Israel Kristilere challenged attendees to redefine prosperity as human flourishing, not just economic metrics. He emphasized that leadership must be servant-driven, ethical, and youth-focused. Technology, he said, must be inclusive and values-based, not just disruptive. “Innovation must be homegrown, collaborative, and purpose-driven. Leadership without character is corruption; technology without ethics is chaos; innovation without purpose is emptiness,” he warned.

In his welcome address, Amb. Mark Idiahi, the convener, reflected on the journey that began with a vision to spotlight Africa’s potential and retell its story through the lens of leadership and innovation. “What began 10 years ago as a bold idea has now become a continental movement. The Africa Future Leadership Conference and Awards, marked a milestone not just in years, but also in impact. Today, Africa stands at a critical crossroads. Our population is expanding, our economies are evolving, and our citizens are demanding a new era of accountability, innovation, and growth.”

Idiahi emphasised the nexus between leadership and innovation, stating that “Leadership plays a very significant role, whether you are leading a business or leading a family. Whatever business, without the interplay of leadership, it amounts to nothing.” He noted leadership as the problem facing the African continent and stressed the need for individuals with good character to venture into strategic leadership positions in the continent.

Idiahi opposed the popular saying that describes politics as a dirty game, stating that “when the very worst of us go into politics, they would bring their dirtiness into leadership positions, but when those who are not dirty go into politics, they can influence policy that would bring transformation in Nigeria and in Africa.” He urged governments of African continent to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive by tackling insecurity and ensuring that the right policies that support business growth are inaugurated. “When this is achieved, the rate of Africans migrating to Europe and America would be reduced,” he added.

In his advice to the youths, Idiahi urged them not to give up, saying, “I know it may seem bleak and you may be on the fence right now. You feel that there’s no way out. But I want to tell you that you need to look within. Survival is a big thing. I understand that when you’re on the edge of survival, you want to throw caution to the wind because you want to survive. But, don’t break the rules. Don’t compromise on values because when it’s all said and done, your association will predict your future. In other words, it has to be who you are that will determine what you have.”

Dr. Akin Akinpelu (Ph.D.) unveiled a people-centric model for sustainable development titled “Financing Africa’s Future.” He called for a shift from aid dependency to internal wealth creation, emphasizing that Africa’s greatest asset is its people. Dr Akinpelu highlighted the continent’s annual loss of $88 billion to illicit financial flows and the alarming youth unemployment rate exceeding 30%, despite a booming young population. According to him, the continent must retain domestic capital, finance productivity, and build infrastructure that enables production.

The conference culminated in an awards ceremony that recognised individuals whose contributions have shaped Africa’s development narrative.
Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya received the Philanthropic Clergyman of the Year Award 2025 for his impact in faith, science, youth empowerment, and philanthropy. Dr. Patrick Usiahon Ejedawe (HC), President and Founder of Patjeda Group of Companies, was honored with the Most Outstanding Leader & Philosophy Award for his visionary leadership and entrepreneurial excellence, while Mrs. Joy Ehiagwina Patricks received the Distinguished Africa Leadership Impact Award for her unwavering commitment to Africa’s leadership transformation. Additional honorees were celebrated across sectors including education, health, real estate, media, and social impact.