Stakeholders and Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria, have jointly called for the need to embrace positive leadership, peace and justice in policy-making; to foster development and transformation in the country.
The call was made at the conference and book launch of the book ‘Otivism’, organized to celebrate the 60th birthday and published philosophical ideas of Pharmacist, Human Rights Activist and Policy Analyst, Dr. Otive Igbuzor.
Tagged with the theme “Otivism…A legacy of Ideas for Peace, Justice and Transformation”, the event brought together Civil Society Organizations, academicians, researchers and other stakeholders to reflect and brainstorm on the ideologies, that will foster uprightness and development in Nigeria and any society.
Giving the opening remarks, UNESCO expert on science, technology and innovation and former chairperson of Action Aid, Dr. Jummai Umar-Ajijola, said the intellectual contributions of Dr.Otive Igbuzor which have been tagged and published as Otivism, have earned a place in the annals of ideological discourse.
“The phenomenon of Otive, which the author has christened Otivism, is something that needs to be looked into in this country and today. That has started. It is an ideology that advocates winning and positive leadership. That phenomenon has crisscrossed civil societies; it has crisscrossed the public sector. He started the Centre for Leadership Strategy and made an impact as the Chief of Staff to the former Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate”, Dr Jummai said.
The author of the published book and specialist in political theory, political economy and political methodology, Dr. Iroro S. Izu applauded the ideologies the celebrant stands for.
“Otive Igbuzor made an assertion which says ‘I am a man on a mission. My mission is fired by the passion to reshape the world. This might sound idealistic, but every good and pivotal thing that has helped to advance the cause of humanity first began as an ideal. I am an incurable optimist and I see a lot of good in humanity. I know that the world can become better. I have taken a lot of time to ponder on the Nigerian condition, there is no doubt that the situation is redeemable.’. With this assertion, it is clear that this man is not just a thinker, but is also an optimist… when you see somebody who has reflected so deeply, so comprehensively on the Nigerian condition; on the African condition; on the global condition and says that the situation is redeemable, that means we have hope.” he said.
“Otivism stands for discipline, dedication, diligence. It knows no defeat; knows no limitation” Dr Izu added.
In a documentary aired at the event, the African Director, of Mac Author Foundation, Dr. Kole Shettima in his address, spoke on the importance of good leadership instead of amassing material wealth and advocating for the rights of every human; qualities which the celebrant possesses.
Giving a goodwill message, The Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, Amina J. Mohammed, GCON joined Nigerians and the international community to celebrate the celebrant’s remarkable mentorship, dedication to service and exceptional contribution to nation-building and humanity. She said his “Vision for building strategic leadership and sustainable development in Nigeria and Africa is best encapsulated by the remarkable work that the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development is doing to empower citizens, transform our societies and ensure that we leave no one behind…In this new book [Otivism], you shared some unique ideas and philosophical reflections on topical issues of our time including education, climate change, gender equality, health and most importantly peace and security. I hope this book will inspire the next generation of Nigerians and Africans alike; preparing them to take on the mantle of responsibility, in shaping a more equitable future.”
The Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi in his goodwill message, described Otive as an indispensable and credible partner and a leading light in developing the strategic plan for Ekiti State’s Road Map 8point Agenda while he was governor. He further emphasized the need for commitment, dedication, competence and compassion in handling issues.
Also pouring in accolades and advice were former Deputy President of the Senate of Nigeria, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege; the senator representing Delta Central in the National Assembly, Senator Ede Dafinone; former first lady of Ekiti state, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi; representatives from First Bank Nigeria Plc and several Civil Society Organizations.
Highlights of the event were panels of discussions titled “Reflections on Otivism” and “Integrational Impact” respectively.
