Commissioner representing Ondo State on the Niger Delta Development Commission board, Otito Atikase, has stressed the importance of leading by example and prioritising followers’ collective aspirations over personal gains.

Mr Atikase spoke in Ondo State during a lecture titled “Building bridges: Cultivating strong networks for effective leadership,” delivered at a retreat and leadership training organised by the Division of Students Affairs of the Federal University of Technology, Akure.

Mr Atikase is an alumnus of the institution, having served as the Students’ Union President in 1998.

A statement by the commissioner’s Special Assistant, Rotimi Oyeneyin, indicated that the commissioner also encouraged student leaders to embrace a positive and inclusive culture and cultivate a culture of innovation to effectively lead their peers.

Highlighting the significance of exemplary leadership, Mr Atikase made references to iconic global figures such as Nelson Mandela, Kwame Nkrumah, Angela Merkel, Mahatma Gandhi, and Kofi Annan, whom he described as leaders whose legendary feats and achievements were worthy of emulation.

He underscored the need for student leaders to draw inspiration from these figures and strive to make informed and timely decisions that would benefit their communities.

Mr Atikase also urged the student leaders to approach their roles with a sense of partnership with the school authorities, advising them to choose peace and intellectual engagement when dealing with the university administration and to see themselves as partners in progress by working collaboratively for the common good.

The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, expressed gratitude to Mr Atikase for honouring the school’s invitation and for his commitment to giving back to the university community through infrastructure development, including road rehabilitation, power supply, and hostel accommodation.

The event witnessed the presence of the institution’s deputy vice chancellors, the Dean of Students Affairs, and other notable past student union leaders.

The retreat and leadership training provided a platform for student leaders to engage with Mr Atikase’s insights on building strong networks and enhancing effective leadership in their various capacities.

The event reinforced the critical role student leaders play in shaping the future and the importance of cultivating the right values for success.