[dropcap]I[/dropcap]t is true that Nigeria suffers from the tragedy of leadership as we struggle to cope with the challenges of governance, but it is not entirely true that this is all about our leadership story. Success stories abound in our nation, and these have formed the lubricants keeping the engine of our country running and with the hope of a better day.
We are not entirely lost in the despondency of poor governance, in these precariously gloomy clouds, there are silver linings giving us hope that if we strive further and multiply a few more good leaders like Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, we will succeed as a nation. Leadership is not a tea party,
Nigeria may lack structured, transparent and strong mechanisms for consistently benefiting from the experience of its own outstanding leaders, but certainly not the advanced nations. They have in place, a well-organised system for searching out great minds anywhere in the world to add value to themselves. Today, they have Mimiko on their radar, now tapping from his profound experience.
When Mimiko was getting in the ink of criticisms at home as a sitting governor, the West was compiling notes. While critics were spreading rumours, some United Nations agencies were documenting his legacies. But because he was diligent in the task of leadership, Mimiko is now one of the most sought after leaders from the continent of Africa on Public and Universal healthcare.
Recently, Mimiko was a guest of the Chatham House, London, where he advised the Nigerian Government to pay critical attention to the high rate of maternal mortality. He delivered a paper on “Improving Access to Health Services for All,” using his achievement as a governor of Ondo State in maternal and child health as a case study. The State made a remarkable progress under his leadership.
Mimiko is a legacy of authority by accomplishments. He is fantastic gentleman who has continued to live his life for the people and humanity. An unassuming leader, he served the people Ondo State with a caring heart and meritoriously. His passion for service is unprecedented. This is one man you would always dream to be your President – and why not if we sincerely desire the best as a nation. He was a signature for good governance in health, education and urban renewal.
Gradually emerging in the dominant debates on restructuring is the question of a likely carry-over of bad leadership, regardless of whatever form or shape it may eventually pan out. This touchy question put forward by those who are not totally down with restructuring – in the manner and context some other persons are carrying about, deserve some attention. Such fears could be assuaged with a Mimiko playing more dominant role.
Although Mimiko has made some far-reaching statements on restructuring, but more Nigerians would love to see him taking a leading role. He is one leader that is influential in the South and respected in the North. When he spoke in Kaduna State about restructuring, the nation actually listened.
The global community has come to identified with his legacies, but it is in our interest as a nation appreciate and utilise this bundle of knowledge and experience for our own. At 63, Mimiko is not tired, and he is impacting the universe positively.
Ariyo-Dare Atoye is a political activist and change agent. He writes from [email protected].
The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.
