Sam Adeyemi, a renowned leadership expert and pastor, has emphasised that Africa’s biggest challenge is not its system of government but a deeply ingrained leadership culture that stifles progress.
According to him, regardless of whether a country operates under democracy, monarchy, or military rule, the results have remained the same due to a leadership structure that prioritises personal gain over service.
“The leadership culture was so strong it eventually consumed our attempts to make progress,” Adeyemi said. “A small group of elites use power to corner economic resources to benefit themselves, and they have strong gates, admitting people into that elite class only one at a time.”
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The leadership expert spoke at an interview with BusinessDay last week, emphasising the need for cultural reinvention.
Adeyemi highlighted the historical evolution of democracy, tracing its roots to the French Revolution, where the people rejected monarchy and redefined societal values. He argued that democracy thrives where equality is a fundamental belief but struggles in societies where hierarchical structures persist.
“There’s no way we’re going to make progress with democracy as long as some people are more equal than others,” he said, referencing George Orwell’s Animal Farm. “Our value system does not support the idea that all people are equal.”
Adeyemi, a Christian leader, drew inspiration from the teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasising that true leadership is measured by contribution rather than acquisition.
“The greatest measure for leadership is contribution, not acquisition,” he stated. “But we have a society that worships money. You get money any way, or you rise to power any way, and we worship you—that’s why the society is not changing.”
He also underscored the role of family in shaping leadership values, citing his upbringing as a major influence on his integrity and leadership style.
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“The way my dad led the family, the fact that he was a man of dreams, and the way he always had aspirations and shared them really helped,” he said. “I find it difficult to take money that is not mine because my dad, a civil servant, was never accused of corruption.”
Adeyemi stressed that Africa’s transformation must begin with a fundamental shift in leadership values and societal culture. Without a collective commitment to integrity, service, and equality, he warned, the continent would continue to struggle with underdevelopment despite any changes in government structure.
“We literally need to reinvent the society, but the starting point is culture—the leadership culture,” he concluded.
Beyond analysing the problem, Adeyemi believes in investing in young people to shape the future of leadership. He has tested these principles over 30 years through his radio programmes, Daystar Christian Centre, and Daystar Leadership Academy, which has trained over 52,000 people. Many graduates have become entrepreneurs and professionals worldwide.
His new book, ‘SHIFTS: 6 Steps to Transform Your Mindset and Elevate Your Leadership’, which is set to be launched on February 5, focuses on changing mindsets and helping individuals break limiting beliefs to achieve personal and professional growth.
The clergyman will also host the ‘SHIFT Leadership Conference’ in Lagos on February 8. The conference, marking the 30th anniversary of his radio programme, will provide practical insights for individuals, businesses, and national transformation. The event will feature successful entrepreneurs like Dr. Gabriel Ogbechie, Mrs. Ibukun Awosika, Cedric Nash, among others who will share their success principles.
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