The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Kwara State, Rafiu Ajakaye, on Thursday urged leaders to promote media literacy and critical thinking to foster an informed citizenry.
Ajakaye made the call during his keynote address at the Leadership Summit of the Postgraduate Students’ Association (POGSASS) at the University of Ilorin.
According to him, leaders cannot be tired of explaining their actions and activities in ways that suit the condition of their people or intentionally designed to change their orientation, even as he emphasized the need for clarity and transparency in leadership.
In his address, titled “Empowering the Future: Leadership in a Dynamic World,” Ajakaye explored the evolving landscape of leadership influenced by technological advancements and the rise of new media.
He stressed that modern leaders must embody qualities of education, empathy, courage, and character to effectively serve the public.
Ajakaye, who praised the ongoing urban renewal campaign led by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq as an example of visionary leadership, called on leaders to understand societal issues, strategize effectively, and rectify shortcomings.
While introducing the concept of “digital naturals,” referring to individuals raised in a digital age who expect transparency, accountability, and authenticity from their leaders, he highlighted the need for leaders to be digitally literate, understanding not just the tools but also the ethos of the digital age.
The rise of new media, Ajakaye noted, has revolutionized information dissemination but also led to a fragmented media landscape prone to misinformation. He urged leaders to enhance media literacy and critical thinking among the populace to counter these challenges.
According to him, “We are witnessing the emergence of a new generation known as “digital naturals.” These are individuals who have grown up in a world saturated with digital technology. For them, the internet is not just a tool but a fundamental part of their daily existence.
“This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for leadership. On one hand, digital naturals are highly adept at using technology to drive innovation and change. On the other hand, they demand transparency, accountability, and authenticity from their leaders. This has sparked what is known as increased stakeholders’ activism, an example of which is the current national debate over proposed nationwide protests.
“This is an issue that took off from conversations on the social media among the digital natives, an influential subset of the digital naturals.To engage this generation, leaders must be digitally literate, understanding not just the tools but the ethos of the digital age and issues that are of concern to them.
“This is particularly true as these digital natives or persons in their 20s or early 30s constitute nearly two-thirds of our population and are increasingly critical in the decision-making process of not just Nigeria but of the world. In no time, this cohort is fast redesigning the political map of the world”, he said.
Addressing decision-making complexities, Ajakaye drew parallels with historical figures like Winston Churchill and Henry Kissinger, highlighting the importance of historical knowledge and integrating talent with virtues. He stressed the necessity for leaders to balance immediate needs with long-term objectives, demonstrating both critical thinking and decisive action.
Ajakaye reiterated the importance of empathy, courage, and character in leadership. He urged leaders to embrace these qualities and adapt to the unique dynamics of the digital age, asserting that such an approach will empower both leaders and their communities.
The Leadership Summit, organized by POGSASS, offered a platform for students and professionals to engage in discussions on effective leadership in a rapidly changing world. Ajakaye’s address was met with enthusiastic applause, leaving attendees inspired to approach leadership with integrity and vision.