Popular Nollywood actress and Rivers State deputy governorship candidate for the African Democratic Congress in the 2023 election, Tonto Dikeh, expressed her determination to continue contesting elections until she achieves her ambition.
Speaking at the GOTNI national leadership conference in Abuja, Dikeh acknowledged the challenging nature of politics and described her chances of governing the oil-rich state as both high and slim. She emphasized that politics is not expected to be free and fair, citing the recent election in which the candidate supported by Nyesom Wike, the current governor, did not win through a fair process.
Dikeh asserted her resilience and determination to keep returning to the political arena every four years, regardless of public opinion.
Dikeh stressed the need for effective leadership in Nigeria, particularly for the youth who are striving for a better future.
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Reflecting on her experience as a deputy governorship candidate, she highlighted how older politicians initially underestimated her but acknowledged her serious intent. Dikeh recognized the lack of leadership during the #EndSARS protests and attributed it to the absence of structure and organization, which she believes contributes to the negative perception of young people by older politicians. She called for the youth to not only contest for positions of power but also develop leadership skills and assume positions of authority.
The CEO of the GOTNI Leadership Centre, Linus Okorie, also spoke at the conference, emphasizing the importance of leadership training for individuals occupying leadership positions in Nigeria. Okorie highlighted the need for organizations and national leaders to develop their leadership capacities and networks to ensure sustainable progress. He expressed concern over the lack of leadership principles and values among individuals promoted to leadership roles, leading to the demise of promising organizations.
The GOTNI Leadership Centre has been organizing leadership conferences and programs to address the deficit of leadership capital in Nigeria, aiming to enlighten Nigerians on the significance of leadership development. Okorie stressed that effective leadership is essential for the success and longevity of organizations, urging individuals to acquire the necessary leadership skills and values to drive progress.
