Wike Says Self-Interest in Leadership Slowing Africa’s Growth

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said that Africa’s growth continues to lag because many of its leaders focus on personal gain rather than service to the people.

Wike spoke during the 2025 Innovate Africa Conference held at the ECOWAS Conference Hall in Abuja. He said that poor leadership culture, weak governance systems, and self-serving politics have made it difficult for the continent to turn its resources into real progress.

According to him, despite Africa’s vast natural resources, young population, and creative strength, many nations still face poverty, unemployment, and crumbling infrastructure.

He explained that these challenges persist because leadership in most countries has been more about power struggles than national development.

Wike said Africa’s development has suffered because leadership is often transactional—built on short-term gains and patronage networks—rather than transformational, which focuses on long-term growth and accountability.

He called for a new mindset among leaders, one that sees public office as a platform to serve and build rather than to control and profit.He said Africa needs leaders who act with purpose, integrity, and courage to take tough decisions that will improve lives and strengthen institutions.

Using Abuja as an example, he noted that with clear vision and commitment, abandoned projects are being completed, roads rebuilt, and communities reconnected.

The minister also mentioned that President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing reforms, such as fuel subsidy removal and regional development plans, show the value of strong political will. According to him, leadership driven by bold action can turn challenges into progress and open new paths for development.

Wike added that Africa’s future depends on leaders who are humble, accountable, and focused on shared goals rather than personal ambition. He said leadership should be about trust and service to the people.

In her opening remarks, the founder and president of Innovate Africa Corporation, Uloma Onyebuchi, said Africa must take charge of its own development path instead of depending on foreign models. She described Innovate Africa as a movement focused on local innovation, collaboration, and creativity that can shape the continent’s future.

Onyebuchi said true progress will come when Africans work together across borders, sectors, and generations to turn ideas into impact through technology, vision, and purpose-driven leadership.