In a bid to contribute to the discourse on governance education and leadership transformation in Africa, the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), in collaboration with the African School of Governance (ASG), Kigali, Rwanda on Friday, 21st February 2025 at Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC), Abuja, convened a High-Level Strategic Dialogue on Governance Education in Africa.
The AANI Strategic Dialogue, Themed “Innovative Approaches to Governance Education and Leadership Transformation in Africa,” aimed to explore modern strategies for governance education and leadership development, fostering a cadre of leaders equipped to address Africa’s socio-political and economic challenges.
In his welcome, President, Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI)the AANI President, Ambassador Emmanuel Obi Okafor stressed that as an advocacy body, AANI is committed to providing a platform for meaningful discussions and collaborations that drive national development.
Amb. Okafor said the dialogue presents a unique opportunity to share experiences, explore innovative solutions, and foster partnerships that promote good governance and leadership in Africa. "I am confident that our discussions will be enriched by the diverse perspectives and expertise represented here today."
He noted that the dialogue focused on the role of governance education in leadership transformation, exploring modern methodologies for governance and public policy training, and transformational Governance which is Strategies for implementing governance reforms and strengthening institutions.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Kingsley Mogbalu, the President of Africa School of Governance Kigali, Rwanda who delivered a topic on "the future of governance education in Africa", explained that governance education plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between traditional and modern forms of governance.
Prof Mogbalu gave several challenges that must be addressed to ensure the future success of governance education in Africa despite these advancements. These includes: limited access to quality education. Many African countries still struggle with inadequate infrastructure, insufficient funding, and a shortage of qualified educators. This has resulted in a disparity in educational opportunities, particularly for students in rural areas.
The prevalence of outdated curricula that do not adequately reflect the dynamic and evolving nature of governance. Many programs still rely on theoretical approaches that fail to address the practical realities faced by policymakers and administrators.
He said there is also a significant gap in practical experience for students. Internships, fieldwork, and hands-on training are often lacking, leaving graduates ill-prepared to tackle the complex challenges of governance in the real world.
He also added that political interference in educational institutions has hindered the development of independent and critical thinking skills among students. Academic freedom is essential for fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in governance education.
Prof. Mogbalu concludes that the future of governance education in Africa holds immense promises, particularly in amplifying homegrown solutions and fostering mindset change. By addressing existing challenges and embracing innovative strategies, the African School of Governance creates an educational system that empowers the next generation of leaders to drive positive changes.
He stressed that emphasizing locally developed strategies ensures that solutions are tailored to the unique needs and contexts of African communities, promoting self-reliance and creativity. Moreover, encouraging a shift in mindset towards resilience, adaptability, and forward-thinking approaches instill values of excellence, inclusiveness, and integrity in governance education.
During the interactive session, the panel of discussion featured seasoned experts in policy, governance, adminsitration, politics, leadership and strategy like Comrade Issa Aremu, Professor Nasirdeen Usman, Professor Oluwafemi Mimiko and Barr. Kemi Olomola-Siwajuade, gave insights to how the Nigerian Government can tackle prevalence challenges of Governance in order to adequately reflect the dynamic and evolving nature of governance.
Participants at the dialogue were prominent dignitaries and thought leaders, including, Chairman of the occasion, Engineer Mohammed Gambo Umar, mni PhD, and Keynote Speaker, Professor Kingsley Moghalu, President, African School of Governance, Kigali, Rwanda.
Others are Comrade Issa Aremu mni, the Director General, Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), Ilorin, Professor Oluwafemi Mimiko, mni, Professor of Political Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (currently on sabbatical at NARC, Abuja) and Professor Nasiruddeen Usman, mni, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Mewar Internally University, Abuja and Barrister (Mrs) Kemi Olomola-Sijuwade, mni, a legal expert, key stakeholders from government, the private sector, academia, civil society, and the media.
