Servant Leadership as a Catalyst for National Development: Principles, Problems and Prospects

Abstract

Abstract
This paper examines the role of servant leadership as a catalyst for national
development in Nigeria, highlighting its principles, challenges, and potential. It argues
that the persistent issues of poverty, insecurity, and underdevelopment in Nigeria are
largely attributed to ineffective leadership. The author advocates for servant
leadership—characterised by empathy, listening, and community building—as a
transformative approach that can address these challenges. By situating servant
leadership within the context of Fountain University, the paper illustrates its practical
application and the positive outcomes achieved under the administration of the current
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olayinka Ramota Karim. Additionally, the author draws
parallels with historical Islamic leadership principles, emphasising that effective
leadership must prioritize the well-being of the populace. The conclusion calls for a
collective commitment to adopting servant leadership principles at all levels of
governance to foster sustainable national development.
Keywords
Servant leadership, national development, Nigeria, leadership principles, Islamic
leadership principles