Sam Adeyemi on SHIFT Leadership Conference, youth capacity — and Nigeria in the next 30 years

Sam Adeyemi, the strategic leadership consultant, has called for a fundamental shift in how leadership is perceived across Africa.

He said leaders must focus on serving the people rather than chasing titles and positions of power.

Adeyemi, who holds a doctorate in strategic leadership, said one of Africa’s main challenges is a limited understanding of what leadership entails.

He spoke with TheCable in an interview ahead of the SHIFT Leadership Conference slated for February 8 in Lagos.

Adeyemi, who pastors Daystar Christian Centre, warned that the continent’s leadership crisis cannot be resolved without a shift in mindset.

“Leadership is often associated with positions of power, but leadership is actually about influence and service. We need to shift how we view leadership; it’s about helping others and achieving shared goals,” Adeyemi said.

“If we don’t build leadership capacity across all levels, we diminish our continent’s potential to succeed. The shift has to happen now. It’s about changing the mindset that drives the culture.”

The SHIFT Leadership Conference, which marks the 30th anniversary of Adeyemi’s radio programme Success Power, aims to address these misconceptions.

First aired on February 8, 1995, Success Power has been a key platform for Adeyemi to teach the basic principles of success, broadcasting for 30 years across radio and television.

AWOSIKA, OGBECHIE, NASH TO SPEAK AT SHIFT LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Adeyemi, who has written numerous books, said the upcoming conference will highlight the powerful transformations that have occurred in the lives of those who follow his teachings.

“Some of those who have experienced remarkable transformations by applying these principles will share their personal stories of change during the conference,” he said.

“But, the ultimate focus is on leadership and the methodology that I am sharing — this methodology that I have applied to my life consistently for more than 30 years, with amazing results.”

The conference will feature a lineup of influential speakers, including Ibukun Awosika, former chair of First Bank; Gabriel Ogbechie, CEO of Renoil Limited; and Cedric Nash, a real estate mogul from the United States. They will share their personal leadership experiences and the principles that have shaped their success.

To involve the next generation, Adeyemi revealed that over 300 schools applied for fully subsidised slots for student leaders and teachers.

“If we’re discussing leadership, I want young people in the room because what goes into a mind pumps out in their life. If we want to see what Nigeria will look like in 30 years, we must invest in today’s young minds,” Adeyemi added.