The Rational Approach of Obafemi Awolowo’s Principles in Enhancing Efficient Leadership and Good Governance through Intellectual Enormity

Abstract

This paper gaudily examines Chief Obafemi Awolowos’ philosophies, activities and his legacies. He was a nationalist and an African hero who has contributed to knowledge, made constitutions and developer of democracy in Nigeria and Africa at large. Chief Obafemi Jeremiah Oyeniyi AWOLOWO, GCFR was an aristocrat, statesman, Yoruba political leader, Nigerian and African nationalist.The paper further explores his rationales and approaches in enhancing a resourceful leadership and strengthening good governance in Nigeria through intellectual enormity among political office holders which result into an overall growth and development. He ensured that good governance encompasses the following; transparency, accountability, social justice, fairness, equity, selflessness, critical observation of the rule of law, purposeful leadership, effective institutions, and legitimacy of political economic and administrative authority, security and order.Finally, Awolowo believed that intellectual enormity of the people is most important because when a person is educated, his mind and body would be developed and transformed; hence such a person would approach issues correctly, rightly and timely.

This paper recommends the sustainability and the adoption of this hero’s perspective, ensuring political and policy education for all Nigerian political leaders, and encouraging competition inform of public debate among contestants in various political parties across all governmental level.

Keywords: Awolowo, intellectual enormity, leadership, good governance, development.