Liyel Imoke, founder of the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF) and former governor of Cross River State, has emphasized the importance of character development in nurturing Nigeria’s future leaders.
Speaking at the 2024 EPLF Graduation and Mentoring Dinner in Abuja, Imoke urged young Nigerians to understand that politics is more than just electoral victories; true leadership requires integrity, passion, and service to the people.
“Politics is not something you just engage in for the sake of it. Winning an election does not automatically make you a leader,” Imoke said.
“Leaders are not born; they are made. They have to go through a process of development, focusing on character, integrity, and a zeal to serve.”
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He added that Nigeria’s leaders must be nurtured with integrity and commitment, to build a stronger, more visionary future for the nation.
The EPLF, now in its 11th year, runs a competitive fellowship programme aimed at identifying and shaping Nigeria’s next generation of political leaders.
Imoke revealed that over 700 applications were received for this year’s cohort, but only 25 fellows were selected.
“It’s a very competitive fellowship,” Imoke explained. “We had over 700 applications for 25 slots. We make it as competitive as possible and ensure that those selected have a vested interest in public service.”
The fellowship brings together young Nigerians from across the country. Imoke highlighted that despite being drawn from every region—north, south, east, and west—the selection is based purely on merit and quality, rather than geographical zoning.
In addition to the fellowship, the foundation runs several large-scale programmes. These include an annual career day event, where experts from different sectors, such as the entertainment industry, engage with thousands of young people. “We had over 5,000 kids at our career event this year, focusing on the entertainment industry,” Imoke noted.
The foundation also runs mentorship programmes, educational initiatives, and health scholarship schemes, all designed to help young Nigerians excel both academically and in their communities.
As part of the graduation event, fellows had the opportunity to engage with experienced political leaders, gaining valuable mentorship and guidance as they prepare for future roles in public service.
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