The Leadership Institute (Nigeria), in collaboration with the African Leadership Institute, USA, has officially announced the 2025 edition of its annual Leadership Public Lecture, Leadership Excellence Awards, and Appeal Fund for Educational Rehabilitation of Victims of Banditry in Benue State. The landmark event will take place on Thursday, 11th December 2025, at the NAF Conference Centre, Plot 307 Ahmadu Bello Way, Kado, Abuja, commencing at 11:00 a.m.
As Africa’s premier independent institution devoted to leadership development, ethical governance, public service excellence, and nation-building, the Leadership Institute continues its long-standing mission of cultivating exemplary leadership and strengthening democratic values across the continent.
This year’s programme will feature a Keynote Public Lecture delivered by Justice Cheryl Grant, a renowned American jurist, global leadership advocate, and influential voice on governance, civic responsibility, and democratic renewal. Her lecture, titled “Africa at the Crossroads: Redefining Leadership for Global Relevance,” will engage government leaders, diplomats, development partners, academics, civil society, and the private sector in a high-level dialogue aimed at advancing visionary and accountable leadership across the continent.
In addition to the lecture, the Institute will host the 2025 Leadership Excellence Awards, honouring distinguished Nigerians whose contributions to governance, security, economic development, public service, cultural advancement, humanitarian outreach, and institutional reform have demonstrated outstanding vision, integrity, and impact. The awards celebrate exemplary leadership that strengthens national development, inspires public confidence, and contributes to Nigeria’s pursuit of peace, unity, and prosperity.
The event will also launch an Appeal Fund for the Educational Rehabilitation of Victims of Banditry in Benue State, a humanitarian initiative aimed at rebuilding schools, restoring learning facilities, supporting teachers, and providing educational access to children displaced or affected by violent attacks. The Institute emphasises that restoring education in conflict-affected communities is central to rebuilding hope, protecting the future of young people, and strengthening national resilience.
Speaking ahead of the event, Sen. Amb. Prof. Iyorwuese Hagher, OON, President of the Leadership Institute (Nigeria), noted that the 2025 edition is particularly timely given Nigeria’s current leadership challenges and the urgent need for renewed national vision and ethical governance. He stated:
“This year’s public lecture and awards ceremony come at a defining moment in Africa’s developmental journey. By convening leading thinkers, honouring exceptional leaders, and mobilising support for vulnerable communities, we reaffirm our commitment to shaping leaders of character, courage, and conscience. The Appeal Fund reflects our belief that no community should be left behind, and that education remains the most powerful tool for sustainable recovery.”
The Institute invites policymakers, corporate leaders, diplomatic missions, international development organisations, civil society actors, academics, and the general public to attend this important national gathering.
For inquiries or confirmation of attendance, please contact:
Email: contact@leadership.org.ng
Phone: 0803-426-9006
