Pastore Sam Adeyemi, the Senior Pastor of Daystar Christian Centre, has criticised Nigeria’s leadership culture, saying many people occupying positions of authority have not received formal training in leadership.
Pastore Adeyemi said leadership is a skill that requires deliberate learning and development, arguing that the country must prioritise leadership education to improve governance and national development. The cleric made the remarks ahead of the 2026 Excellence in Leadership Conference organised by Daystar Christian Centre and scheduled for November 5 and 6 in Lagos.
“Most people occupying leadership positions in our country have not learned leadership anywhere,” Pastore Adeyemi said, expressing concern that people often assume positions of authority without acquiring the skills needed to lead effectively. He argued for the importance of preparing prospective leaders before they take on positions of responsibility.
The conference, themed “Leading in Uncertainty,” is expected to bring together participants from business, public service, religion and the creative industry to examine leadership challenges in an environment characterised by economic pressures and social uncertainty.
Pastore Adeyemi and his wife, Nike Ad, said the conference would address the demands of leading amid changing economic, social and personal circumstances, equipping participants with practical insights for navigating uncertainty.
The cleric’s latest comments reflect his longstanding advocacy for structured leadership development in Nigeria. In previous interventions, Adeyemi has called on governments to invest in developing leadership potential among young people, arguing that character, competence and a commitment to public service are essential to national progress.
He has also advocated incorporating leadership education into Nigeria’s school system and encouraging those already in positions of authority to seek professional coaching and participate in leadership development programmes.
Through the Daystar Leadership Academy, established in 2002, Adeyemi has promoted leadership training for individuals seeking to improve their capacity to lead in business, public service and other sectors.