By Ngozi Njoku
The Pan-African Leadership Institute (PALI) has urged the promotion of effective and ethical leadership across Africa as the foundation for socio-economic transformation.
PALI global president, Dr Kofi Osei-Kush, made the call in Lagos during an interactive session with Nigerian alumni and fellows of the institute.
The session formed part of activities for the 2025 PALI Leadership Conference, scheduled to hold from Oct. 23 to Oct. 25.
The conference, with the theme ‘Think Leadership. Think PALI’, aims to inspire purposeful leadership, foster collaboration, and strengthen professional networks among African changemakers.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the alumni held a media parley in Lagos to welcome Dr Osei-Kush to Nigeria.
The event provided a platform for interaction between the alumni, journalists, and partners on the forthcoming leadership conference and its objectives.
Speaking at the engagement, Dr Osei-Kush emphasised Pan-Africanism, leadership development, and unity among Africans both on the continent and in the diaspora.
He said PALI was established to develop transformational leaders across Africa, adding that unity was key to the continent’s growth and decolonisation.
“For Africa to thrive and decolonise, we must unite and see ourselves as one people with a shared destiny,” he stated.
He noted that the African Union recognises the diaspora as the sixth region of Africa and stressed that PALI seeks to build bridges between both sides.
“The institute develops leadership capacity, harnesses our potential, and tackles poverty and other challenges confronting the continent,” he said.
Osei-Kush disclosed that PALI had trained over 1,200 leaders across 53 countries, many of whom are Nigerians.
He described Nigeria as “a strategic nation and the giant of Africa,” noting that its role in the institute’s growth was significant.
He said PALI’s curriculum blends African wisdom with global exposure, combining traditional values and modern leadership principles.
“It’s important we rediscover our ancient African leadership models and proverbs and apply them in today’s leadership practice,” he said.
Osei-Kush explained that PALI’s courses are conducted virtually, with participants connecting globally, while graduation ceremonies rotate annually among member nations.
“Our global headquarters currently operates from Trinidad and Tobago,” he added.
He stressed that leadership must be guided by integrity, transparency, and service to others.
“Leadership is not only about intelligence but also about values. Ethical leadership ensures trust and accountability,” he said.
A Nigerian alumnus, Dr George Oboh, said the programme was not profit-driven but aimed at providing accessible leadership training across sectors.
He commended the institute for its focus on capacity building, noting that some participants received full scholarships.
“Leadership exists in every field — education, agriculture, family, and governance. PALI’s goal is to raise leaders to take Africa higher,” he said.
Another alumna, Mrs Jessica Okoli, said PALI empowers young Africans by promoting decolonisation through education and reimagining African leadership.
She urged greater focus on youth and women’s leadership, stressing that empowerment begins at home through traditional value teaching.
“When a woman is empowered, the world is empowered. Investing in youth and women transforms society,” she said.
Osei-Kush also urged Africans to embrace self-reliance and patronise locally made products.
“We must produce what we eat and consume what we produce to create jobs and industries in Africa,” he said.
He encouraged emerging leaders to uphold Pan-Africanism and continue building their leadership capacity.
“My final word is that Africa will be great again. Do not lose hope in Africa. You are the change the continent awaits,” he said.
He reaffirmed PALI’s commitment to promoting innovation, ethical leadership, and capacity building across Africa. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
