Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said leadership deficit is a major challenge confronting the world with Africa feeling it more than other parts of the globe.

Obasanjo said this yesterday in Abuja at the 11th African Biblical Leadership Initiative (ABLI) 2024 Conference organised by the Bible Society of various countries with the theme: Value-Based Leadership Model for Africa and hosted by Nigeria.

The conference gathered African and European leaders, alongside global Christian figures, to discuss solutions to the continent’s leadership challenges.

The former President said: “If there is any shortage in supply of anything in the world today, it is leadership.

“Deficit of leadership is our major problem in the world today. Of course, Africa, being a part of the world, we are not exempted. If you like, Nigeria, being a part of Africa, is not exempted.

“When I got an invitation as a chairman of this occasion, I took a critical look at the quality of leadership of great leaders in the Bible.

“These people possessed knowledge and understanding; they had a mission and compassion and were competent and very close to God who is the greatest leader.”

The former President challenged world leaders, including those in Africa and especially Nigeria, to lead with the fear of God to overcome the current challenges.

He posited that leaders must possess “quality of Biblical leaders who ruled the world of their generation with God’s wisdom”.

Obasanjo eulogised his former boss in the Nigerian Army and fellow former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon.

He described Gowon as a celebrated leader in the mould of the late British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

Obasanjo lauded Gowon’s exceptional leadership, saying while a few leaders received recognition during their lifetime, Gowon has recorded lasting impact on Nigeria.

He called for visionary and ethical leadership in Africa, saying: “Only a few leaders are appreciated in their lifetime. General Gowon, I envy you because you are appreciated while still alive. That, too, is the grace of God in your life. You are like Winston Churchill.

“Winston Churchill fought tirelessly for the British Empire, yet he was unappreciated, called a warmonger, and even voted out of Parliament. Still, before he died, he was named ‘Man of the Century.’”

Also, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, urged leaders at all levels to promote justice to actualise the dream of “value-based leadership”.

The First lady, who was represented by Mrs. Gloria Akobundu, said the value of justice is the foundation of godly leadership.

She noted that it ensures fairness, equity, equality, and protection for everyone, especially the vulnerable in the society.

“Africa is at the crossroads facing numerous challenges that require effective godly leadership.

“As Christian leaders, we must embrace the value-based leadership model that reflects the teaching of Jesus Christ.

“This model is built on four foundational values: justice, integrity, wisdom and social harmony,” she said.

A former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, noted that leadership is critical to the development of Africa and Nigeria in particular.

Gana said one of the objectives of the conference was to seek, unveil and inculcate fresh ideas to redefine the character of leadership and governance as well as transform the continent.