Dr. Kingsley Moghalu, President of the African School of Governance (ASG) and former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, has underscored the need for selfless leadership and ethical governance as critical factors for Africa’s sustainable development. Speaking during the Toyin Falola Interviews, a platform dedicated to addressing Africa’s challenges, Moghalu provided a profound analysis of governance issues on the continent.
He emphasized the importance of leaders embodying integrity and selflessness, stating that Africa’s progress hinges on a strong ethical foundation. “Without selfless leaders who prioritize societal values, even the best systems will fail,” Moghalu asserted.
Moghalu identified ineffective leadership and a lack of politically and economically educated populations as major obstacles to governance. He explained that uninformed citizens enable cycles of poor governance, urging leaders to empower people through education and active participation.
“Transformative leadership must educate and engage citizens to break the cycle of passivity and ignorance,” he said.
Citing Rwanda and Botswana as examples of success, Moghalu highlighted how visionary leadership and ethical governance can drive development. He praised Rwanda’s disciplined approach, long-term planning, and near-zero tolerance for corruption as factors that have spurred its growth.
“In Rwanda, accountability and strategic thinking have become cultural norms, driving progress,” Moghalu noted.
Moghalu criticized the wholesale adoption of foreign governance models, arguing that Africa needs systems aligned with its unique cultural and historical contexts. He pointed out that Asia’s success is rooted in long-term vision and societal welfare, while Western systems focus on individual freedoms and innovation.
“Africa must interrogate and develop governance models that work for its people, rather than copying systems ill-suited to its realities,” he argued.
Describing corruption as a significant barrier, Moghalu called for accountability systems that deter unethical behavior. He commended Rwanda for its strict anti-corruption stance and advocated for leaders to lead by example.
“In Nigeria, corruption is central, weakening governance and discouraging investment. Leadership must establish systems where corruption has consequences,” he stated.
Moghalu stressed the need to integrate ethics education into African schools to instill values and discipline. He highlighted the African School of Governance’s efforts to train future leaders in governance principles and their philosophical underpinnings.
“Building a society on ethical foundations is crucial. If I had become president, I would have made ethics education mandatory,” Moghalu said.
Moghalu concluded by emphasizing the need for a new breed of African leaders who prioritize selflessness, ethical values, and the collective good. He called for a rethinking of leadership, governance, and education to address Africa’s challenges effectively.
“The future of Africa depends on leaders with vision and integrity. At ASG, we are committed to nurturing a new generation of transformative leaders,” he said.
The interview, moderated by Professor Toyin Falola and featuring insights from academics like Professor Nimi Wariboko, provided a comprehensive discussion on leadership and governance issues in Africa.
