Leadership, innovation key to nation’s growth- Gov Aiyedatiwa

……..As FUTA VC lauds Aiyedatiwa, seeks stronger collaboration, improved security

By Tolulope Eniola

Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has identified effective leadership and innovation as critical drivers of Nigeria’s growth and development, stressing that the nation’s progress depends largely on its ability to adapt to changing global realities.

The Govenor made this emphasis while delivering a lecture titled “Leadership, Organisational Performance and Technology in a Rapidly Changing World,” at the Foundation Day of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) on Thursday.

He described leadership as a fundamental force that determines whether institutions achieve their goals, noting that effective leadership goes beyond occupying positions of authority to influencing, motivating and guiding people toward shared objectives.

He said universities occupy a unique place in society as centres of intellectual reflection, innovation and the training of future leaders, stressing that higher institutions must continue to evolve in response to technological advancement and global trends.

Aiyedatiwa explained that leadership has been widely studied across disciplines, including management, psychology and political science, with scholars agreeing that it is essentially a process of influence rather than coercion.

According to him, leadership is not merely about position but about the ability to inspire, persuade and mobilise individuals toward common goals.

The governor highlighted various leadership theories, including the trait theory, which suggests that leadership is rooted in inherent qualities and the skills approach, which posits that leadership abilities can be learned and developed through education and experience.

He also referenced behavioural and situational leadership theories, noting that effective leadership depends on actions and context and that leaders must be flexible enough to adapt their styles to different situations.

On leadership styles, Aiyedatiwa identified autocratic, democratic and laissez-faire approaches, explaining that each has its relevance depending on organisational needs.

He noted that while autocratic leadership may be useful in situations requiring quick decisions, democratic leadership promotes inclusiveness and innovation, while laissez-faire leadership allows autonomy in specialised environments.

The governor linked leadership directly to organisational performance, stating that institutions achieve success through clear vision, strategic direction and measurable outcomes.

He noted that performance is often assessed through Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), which help organisations evaluate progress and effectiveness.

“Leadership remains the driving force that transforms organisational vision into measurable results,” he said.

Governor Aiyedatiwa further underscored the growing importance of technology as a driver of organisational efficiency, noting that advancements in digital systems have enabled organisations to operate beyond traditional limitations of time and distance.

He, however, cautioned that technology alone cannot guarantee success without effective leadership to guide its application.

“Technology enhances performance, but it does not replace leadership. It must be integrated into a broader strategy to achieve meaningful outcomes.”

Speaking on the role of universities of technology, the governor said institutions such as the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), play a strategic role in national development by producing skilled and innovative graduates.

He noted that such institutions contribute significantly to sectors including engineering, fintech, data science and digital entrepreneurship, thereby strengthening economic growth and competitiveness.

He also highlighted ongoing efforts in Ondo State to prioritise education, infrastructure and technological development, noting that investments in these areas are essential for long-term prosperity.

Looking ahead, he pointed to the increasing influence of artificial intelligence and digital transformation, urging leaders to develop not only technical competence but also critical thinking, adaptability and emotional intelligence.

He stressed that while technology continues to evolve, human qualities such as judgment, integrity and vision remain central to effective leadership.

The governor urged institutions to focus on leadership development and innovation, noting that the future will be shaped by those who can effectively combine both.

“The true measure of leadership is not only what we achieve today, but the kind of future we prepare others to build,” he concluded.

Earlier in her address, the Vice Chancellor of FUTA, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa, for his sustained support towards the growth and development of the institution, while calling for deeper collaboration in critical areas, including security, infrastructure and student welfare.

She noted that the university has consistently attracted high-profile visits from eminent personalities and government officials, reflecting its growing reputation as a leading research-intensive institution in Nigeria.

She appreciated the governor for several interventions that have significantly enhanced the university’s development, particularly the conversion of the State Specialist Hospital to a teaching hospital for FUTA.

According to her, the move has strengthened the institution’s medical programme and improved healthcare delivery in the state.

Oladiji acknowledged the governor’s role in executing a water project at the teaching hospital, as well as the construction of a link road connecting the FUTA South Gate to adjoining areas, which he said has eased transportation challenges for staff and students.

“We are deeply grateful for these impactful interventions. They have not only improved our academic environment but also contributed to the wellbeing of our community.”

The Vice-Chancellor further appreciated the inclusion of FUTA alumni in key positions within the state government.

While commending the government’s efforts, Oladiji appealed for urgent attention to pressing needs, particularly security on and around the campus, calling for the deployment of additional security architecture to safeguard lives and property.

She also requested support in providing shuttle buses to ease transportation for students and staff, as well as the development of more hostel facilities through public-private partnerships to accommodate the growing student population.

Reaffirming FUTA’s commitment to societal development, the Vice-Chancellor said the university remains at the forefront of research and innovation, with deliberate efforts to ensure that host communities benefit from its academic output.

She also underscored the importance of collaboration between academia and government, noting that universities serve as centres of knowledge that thrive on interaction with policymakers and practitioners.

She stressed that the Foundation Day Lecture is a key tradition of the university aimed at fostering intellectual discourse and strengthening the relationship between academia and governance.

According to her, the lecture series has, over the years, featured distinguished scholars, industry leaders and public office holders committed to national development through education.

The event had in attendance: The Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami; Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola; Chief of Staff , Prince Segun Omojuwa; Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo; State Chairman of APC, Hon. Kolawole Babatunde; Members of Ondo State House of Assembly; Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Adesoji Afolabi; Elder Statesman, Bashorun Sehinde Arogbofa; Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal; Traditional rulers;