The leadership we need in 2027, of Baba …

As the 2027 elections approach, Nigeria is back in a critical moment, a moment that requires a profound reflection on the type of leadership that the nation really requires. The choices before the electorate are clear: keep the current administration or opt for change. But beyond this track, there is a more fundamental question: what should leadership that Nigeria needs in this fundamental moment?

The factors can model the choices of the voters

Several urgent problems will undoubtedly influence the electorate’s decision. First of all, it is the widespread disappointment for the policies of the current government, which have inflicted serious economic difficulties for citizens. The free fall of the Naira, the removal of fuel subsidies without adequate mitigation measures and the imposition of more withdrawals and taxes have left many Nigerians who fight to survive.

AGRADDRATE THESE ECONOMICAL PROBLEMS is the perception of a domineering government – one who is increenly muer ignores dissent and works with an alarming distance from the people who govern. The domain of the manager on other government weapons further eroded public trust, creating an impression of uncontrolled power.

Safety remains another critical concern. The inability to curb the insurrection, the bandits and community violence have led many to wonder if the government is truly committed to protecting its citizens or worse, if it is an accomplice of ethno-religious tensions that tear the nation to pieces. The lack of inclusiveness in governance has only deepened these divisions, promoting a sense of alienation between large sections of the population.

The leadership that Nigeria deserves

In this context, Nigeria needs a leader who can rise above the division and lead the nation towards healing. The ideal leadership must give priority *inclusiveness*, Ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity, religion or social class, feels represented and appreciated. This leader must be a unifying figure, one who can repair the national cohesion parade and restore faith in governance.

Experience is important. Nigeria cannot afford another leader who spends precious years to learn the work while the nation burns. The next president must be an expert administrator, someone with a proven experience in governance, able to hit the land that runs from the first day.

The courage will not be negotiable. The next administration has to face the structural defects of Nigeria frontally, including the urgent need for renovation to guarantee efficient governance. A leader must also be blamed in facing insecurity, implementing any necessary resource without political prejudices or favoritism.

On the international stage, the stature of Nigeria has decreased. The next leader must command global respect, exploiting diplomatic influence to recover the position of the nation and attract significant partnerships.

Perhaps above all, the electoral reform must be an absolute priority. The free and Eque elections are the foundation of democracy and any serious leader on the future of Nigeria must commit to revising the electoral system and ensure that the votes count, that the results reflect the will of the people and that no individual or group manipulates the selfish gain process.

A lesson from the past

The story offers a model. Once upon a time there was a leader who, despite the immense pressure, confirmed the holiness of the polls, granting the defeat in the interest of national peace. This leader ruled with relative moderation, avoiding the extremes of self -acting and maintained moderation behavior even in the face of provocation. Quality such as humility, respect for democratic rules and commitment to stability. These are what Nigeria desperately needs today.

While 2027 approaches, the Nigerians must look beyond rhetoric and feeling. The survival of the nation depends on the choice of a leader who embodies these virtues; One who can join, refor and restore hope in a country that has suffered too much for too long. The time for decisive, compassionate and competent leadership is now.

■ Baba Isimi Fnia is the promoter of National Integration Group

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