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SPPG Graduates 262 Youths, Calls for Ethical Leadership to Transform Africa

Phinadon Mag

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The School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG) graduated 262 youths in Abuja, with Oby Ezekwesili, Patrick Lumumba, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, and Alex Otti urging ethical, people-centered leadership for Africa’s renewal.

The School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG) on Tuesday graduated 262 youths from its Class of 2025, celebrating them as “unconventional leaders” equipped to drive Africa’s transformation through ethical, evidence-based, and people-centered leadership.

The colourful ceremony, held in Abuja, underscored SPPG’s mission to nurture competent and values-driven leaders committed to redefining the continent’s development trajectory.

“Blueprints for Africa’s Future”

Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer of SPPG Africa, Mrs. Alero Ayida-Otobo, described the graduates’ capstone projects as “blueprints for Nigeria and Africa’s future.”

She reminded the cohort that their certificates were “not a destination but a commissioning,” urging them to harness Africa’s human capital to build systems that uplift the vulnerable.

Tribute to Somtochukwu Maduagwu

The ceremony also featured a tribute to Somtochukwu (Sommie) Maduagwu, a 2023 SPPG graduate who was killed in a robbery.

SPPG Chair, Mr. Frank Nweke II, and Ayida-Otobo honoured her legacy, charging the Class of 2025 to champion urgent reforms in Nigeria’s health and security sectors in her memory.

Ezekwesili: “Lead with Compassion and Wisdom”

Founder of SPPG and #FixPolitics visionaryDr. Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili, called for value-driven leadership, drawing from her personal experiences, including her 2019 political campaign.

Ezekwesili urged the graduates to reject transactional politics and instead focus on transformational governance that prioritises citizens’ welfare.

Mlambo-Ngcuka: “Africa’s Poverty Is a Leadership Problem”

Former Deputy President of South Africa and UN Women Executive DirectorDr. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, challenged the graduates to lead Africa out of what she described as the paradox of a rich continent with poor people.

She noted that Africa possesses over half of the world’s arable land and vast mineral wealth, yet remains a “poster card of poverty.”

Mlambo-Ngcuka urged the graduates to embrace the spirit of Ubuntu“I am because you are”—and to serve as public servants, not public masters.

She cautioned that many educated individuals engage in corruption, challenging the graduates to become the antidote to that trend.

The former UN Women chief also called for stronger protection of women’s rights, warning that global progress since the 1995 Beijing Declaration is at risk of reversal.

Lumumba: “Overcome the Paralysis of Do-Nothingism”

Delivering the keynote address, renowned Pan-African scholarProfessor Patrick Lumumba, urged the graduates to overcome what he termed the “paralysis of do-nothingism.”

He challenged the new leaders to translate ideas into action, stressing that Africa’s transformation depends on courageous, ethical, and visionary leadership.

Otti: “Politics Is a Vocation, Not a Job”

Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, who attended as Special Guest of Honour, began his address with the quote, “Politics is too important to be left in the hands of politicians.”

He argued that politics is not a job but a vocation, emphasising that leaders must have professional experience before venturing into governance.

He urged the graduates to challenge mediocrity and ensure that those suffering from poor policies are no longer ignored.

Awards and Recognitions

Outstanding academic and leadership performances were recognised during the ceremony.

  • Benjamin and Cecilia Ujubuonu Award: Omolola Oluwaseun Oluwadara
  • Dean’s Award: Omolola Oluwaseun Oluwadara and Duke Olurin
  • Capstone Project Awards:
    • 1st Place – National Values Project
    • 2nd Place – Project Echo
    • 3rd Place – Advancement of Rights for Children
  • Best Manifesto Award: Temitope Damilola Oyewusi

The Life of Impact Award honoured Imam Muhammad Nurain Ashafa and Pastor James Wuye, co-founders of the Interfaith Mediation Center, for their peacebuilding efforts, and Mrs. Ngizan Chahul, President of the Nigerian Association of Women in Agriculture (NAWIA), for her advocacy in women’s empowerment and grassroots development.

“Be Lions in the Darkness”

In his closing charge, Mr. Frank Nweke II invoked Plato’s warning“A community suffers nothing terrible if its cobblers are degenerate, but if its legislators are, it is ruined.”

He urged the graduates to be “lions in the darkness,” resisting corruption and leading with integrity.

Dean of the Class of 2025Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, reaffirmed the graduates’ commitment to putting policy at the heart of governance.

The event concluded with the national anthem and a symbolic balloon release, signifying the pledge of 262 new leaders to build a better Africa.

Entertainment

The Dangers of Over-Pampering: A Warning from Mama G.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Veteran Nollywood actress, Patience Ozokwor, affectionately known as Mama G, has issued a poignant caution to parents regarding the potential pitfalls of over-pampering their children. Her insights, delivered with characteristic candor, underscore the critical link between childhood experiences and the development of responsible, independent adults.

Ozokwor argues that shielding children from challenges and readily providing for their every whim can, paradoxically, hinder their growth. She contends that allowing children to “struggle” and “go through the process” of earning what they desire is essential for character building. This approach, she clarifies, is not about inflicting hardship but rather about fostering resilience and an understanding of the effort required to achieve goals.

The actress also touched upon the delicate subject of family wealth and inheritance. She advocates for instilling in children the drive to create their own success rather than passively expecting to inherit their parents’ achievements. Mama G revealed she applied this principle directly with her own son, encouraging him to build his own home rather than assume entitlement to hers.

In an era where parental instincts often lean towards providing comfort and ease, Mama G’s words serve as a timely reminder. Her message resonates with the timeless wisdom that true preparation for adulthood lies not in the absence of struggle, but in the learned ability to navigate and overcome it. Parents, she suggests, must find a balance that nurtures their children without inadvertently undermining their capacity for self-reliance.

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Entertainment

Burna Boy has reportedly made history as the first Nigerian artist to achieve 4 billion views on YouTube.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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Nigerian Afrobeats sensation Burna Boy has once again etched his name in the annals of music history, reportedly surpassing an astounding four billion total views on YouTube. This monumental achievement not only solidifies his status as a global superstar but also marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first Nigerian and Sub-Saharan African artist to reach such a staggering figure.

The reported feat encompasses the combined views across Burna Boy’s official YouTube channel, a testament to the enduring appeal and widespread reach of his music videos. From infectious rhythms to compelling visuals, his work has consistently captivated audiences across continents, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.

This latest accomplishment builds upon a series of remarkable achievements on the video-sharing platform. As far back as 2021, Burna Boy shattered records by becoming the first Nigerian artist to exceed one billion total views on YouTube, foreshadowing the immense global impact he would continue to cultivate.

His impressive catalogue boasts a string of hit songs that have collectively garnered millions of views, each a testament to his unique artistry and genre-bending sound. Tracks like “On The Low,” “Ye,” “Last Last,” and “For My Hand” have become anthems, resonating with fans worldwide and contributing significantly to his colossal view count.

Burna Boy’s journey to global recognition has been characterized by consistent innovation, authenticity, and a relentless dedication to his craft. A Grammy-winning artist, he has not only brought Afrobeats to the forefront of the international music scene but has also proudly showcased the richness and diversity of African culture to a global audience.

This four-billion-view milestone is more than just a number; it represents the profound influence and unwavering popularity of an artist who continues to break barriers and redefine the landscape of contemporary music. Burna Boy’s success serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the immense potential of African artists to command a global stage and leave an indelible mark on the world.

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News

Nigerian military personnel have successfully rescued the wife of a retired general within 24 hours of her abduction.

Ikechukwu Emmanuel

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The Nigerian Army has successfully rescued Mrs. Adonkie, wife of retired Brigadier General Basil Adonkie, within 24 hours of her abduction from her Federal Capital Territory residence. This swift and decisive action was detailed in a press statement released on the Nigerian Army’s official Facebook page on Thursday, September 3, 2026.

According to the statement, the rescue operation was launched after Mrs. Adonkie was kidnapped on Tuesday, September 1, 2026. Troops from the Guards Brigade and Army Headquarters Garrison, acting on credible intelligence, swiftly mobilized. Their coordinated efforts led them through the Aco Estate–Goza Community axis, where they engaged the kidnappers. The pressure exerted by the troops forced the abductors to abandon their victim and flee into the surrounding bushes.

Mrs. Adonkie was subsequently found and rescued at Angwan Sabo Village. Following the rescue, troops intensified their pursuit along the Aco Estate-Angwan Sayawa axis, deploying additional forces to block potential escape routes.

The operation continued to yield results on Wednesday, September 2, when troops intercepted two suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate near Gaube Village in the Kuje Area Council of the FCT. This follow-up operation also led to the recovery of significant weaponry, including an AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, and 19 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition.

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that clearance and tracking operations are ongoing across the area to apprehend other members of the kidnapping syndicate. They commend the vigilance and cooperation of residents, reiterating their commitment to protecting lives and property. The Army further assured the public of their continued collaboration with other security agencies to sustain intelligence-driven joint operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and enhancing security throughout the FCT and its environs. This incident underscores the dedication and effectiveness of the Nigerian Army in combating criminal activities and ensuring the safety of citizens.

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