Effective leadership will spur growth in Africa – Experts

By Lucy Ogalue

Toastmaster International, a non profit organisation, has reiterated the importance of effective leadership in springing growth in Africa.

Mrs Titi Ojo, the Chairman of District 94 Conference 2024 Abuja, said this during the Four-Day conference on Wednesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the theme of the conference is “Building Bridges with Words”.

Ojo said, “Africa’s rising rests on the shoulders of leaders who will build bridges with words that inspire, heal, educate, encourage, empower and foster transformational leadership on the continent.

“This conference has brought together over 500 local and international delegates from academia, industry, development, private and public sectors for four days of value-added activities.

“The rich speeches, learning sessions, speech contests, gala, award nights, and other side events have all been planned with you in mind.

“Enjoy every bit of this four-day journey with a deliberate resolve to benefit from every part and have fun while at it,” Ojo said.

The chairman commended the participants and all the various stakeholders who made the event a success.

She added, “in Toastmasters, leadership skills are honed through practice.

“Through this planning process, the conference planning team members have honed their leadership skills in diverse ways and indeed, we cannot remain the same.”

Similarly, the District 94 Director, Mrs Nadine Mbikina, said the conference was a historic moment for the district as it prepared to cross a crucial milestone.

“Through the leadership and dedication of our successive leaders, our strong and prosperous District 94 will give birth to two new districts.

“Each carries the legacy of our past and the promise of an even brighter future.

“We are deeply grateful to each of our members, whose invaluable contribution has made this achievement possible.

“Together, we will continue to build bridges with words, break down barriers, and build a future where dialogue and mutual understanding thrive,” she said.

The director urged its members not to relent in its commitment and dedication to excellence and leadership, saying it is a sure way to success.

Dr Abayomi Aiyesimoju, a former District Director, said Toastmasters International’s main focus was developing members’ leadership and communication skills.

He said the organisation enabled members to progress at the workplace, express themselves better, voluntarily take leadership positions, and become better people.

Also, Mr Inam Wilson, one of the founding members of District 94 and a former director, expressed delight at the organisation’s achievements.

Wilson, who said the gathering was for Toastmasters within the ECOWAS region, said it was an opportunity for members to meet and network.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, expressed his commitment to support the organisation in every way possible.

Jibrin said:” I am confident you are well on the part of leadership training.

“I shall as much as possible identify with this group of young and talented youth whenever the occasion demands it.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Bashir Rabe Mnai