IAUE Don Advocates Leadership-Fellowship Renewal For Nigeria’s National Rebirth

The Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE), Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, has held its 71st inaugural lecture, during which Professor Kenneth Nweke, a Professor of Politics and Governance at the institution, declared that Nigeria has the potential to become a model for Africa and the world if the nation embraces a renewed social contract between leaders and followers.

Delivering the lecture titled “The Nigerian State and Democratic Governance: Rethinking the Leadership-Fellowship Social Contract for National Rebirth,” on Thursday, October 30, 2025, Professor Nweke emphasized that true national rebirth requires time, consistent effort, and a collective change in citizens’ attitudes. He stated that the persistent challenges in Nigeria’s democracy stem largely from a breakdown in the relationship between the governing class and the governed.

The political scientist identified corruption, poor governance, and citizen complacency as major factors hindering Nigeria’s democratic progress. He called for an urgent shift in civic behavior, urging Nigerians to reject complicity in bad governance and to play active roles in electing credible leaders and holding them accountable.

According to him, “National rebirth will remain elusive without a deliberate, non-violent revolutionary effort driven by conscious fellowship and civic engagement.” He maintained that a strong social contract built on integrity, transparency, accountability, protection of lives and property, and citizens’ welfare is vital for Nigeria’s transformation.

Professor Nweke further noted that citizens must take responsibility for choosing the right leaders, voting massively, protecting their votes, and ensuring that authentic election results are declared at all levels. He argued that holding leaders accountable would mark the beginning of a true national rebirth and lay the groundwork for systemic reforms in the electoral and justice systems.

Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor of IAUE, Professor Okechuku Onuchuku, commended Professor Nweke for his insightful presentation and for emphasizing the need to strengthen democratic institutions toward a welfaristic society where leaders are accountable to their followers through free, fair, and credible elections.

Also present was Dr. Ngozi Okiridu, the University’s Public Relations Officer, who praised the inaugural lecture for reinforcing the importance of active citizenship and responsible governance as essential pillars of Nigeria’s democratic renewal.