Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday said the country’s economic and technological progress would depend largely on the quality of leadership and the strength of its educational system.
Speaking at the Federal University of Technology, Akure’s Foundation Day Lecture, the governor stressed the need for universities to produce leaders equipped to navigate emerging global challenges.
Delivering a lecture on leadership and organisational performance in a rapidly evolving world, Aiyedatiwa described higher institutions as key drivers of innovation, human capital development and national competitiveness, noting that their role extends beyond awarding degrees.
He said effective leadership is rooted in influence, adaptability and the ability to motivate people towards shared goals, rather than the use of authority.
According to him, leadership evolves through continuous interaction between leaders and followers, adding that modern realities demand flexibility and situational awareness.
The governor noted that leadership skills could be acquired through education and experience, identifying technical, human and conceptual competencies as critical to success.
He also highlighted different leadership styles, including autocratic, democratic and laissez-faire, explaining that effective leaders often combine approaches depending on prevailing circumstances.
Linking leadership to organisational outcomes, Aiyedatiwa said institutions perform better when leaders provide clear direction, formulate sound policies and inspire commitment among their workforce.
He emphasised that performance must be measured using defined objectives and key performance indicators to ensure accountability.
On the role of technology, the governor said institutions of technology remain central to national development, as they are expected to produce innovative and skilled graduates.
While noting that technological advancement has accelerated information flow globally, he cautioned that technology alone cannot guarantee success without strong leadership to guide its application.
Aiyedatiwa also outlined efforts by the Ondo State Government to strengthen education and infrastructure, listing key institutions contributing to the state’s development agenda.
He added that emerging tools such as artificial intelligence and data analytics would continue to reshape leadership and organisational systems, urging leaders to embrace innovation while maintaining sound judgment and emotional intelligence.
The governor charged universities to equip students with critical thinking, adaptability and leadership skills alongside academic knowledge, stressing that the true test of leadership lies in preparing others for the future.
In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, underscored the importance of leadership and technology in enhancing organisational performance.
She described universities as centres of knowledge creation, noting that collaboration between academia and practitioners is vital for growth.
Oladiji also commended the Ondo State Government for its interventions in the institution, including improvements in healthcare, water supply and road infrastructure.
The event was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, academics and students.
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