Students of the University of Ibadan (UI) were on Monday treated to an inspiring and thought-provoking lecture on leadership delivered by the First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, at the Department of Educational Management, where she once lectured.
Teaching the course Leadership in Formal Organizations (EME 304), Dr. Oyebanji spoke on the topic, “Characteristics of a Principal as a Leader.” She emphasized that leadership within the school system transcends routine administration, describing it as both a responsibility and an influence that shapes institutions and the people who work and learn within them.
Highlighting the essential attributes of effective school leadership, Dr. Oyebanji listed qualities such as genuine leadership, adaptability, fairness, consistency, organizational competence, preparedness, excellent listening skills, and visionary thinking. She noted that principals must balance discipline with encouragement to create environments where teachers and students can thrive.
Drawing from global perspectives, the First Lady cited Sargent Shriver as an example of value-driven and service-oriented leadership, urging students to model their approach to leadership on such enduring principles.
The lecture, which was highly interactive, saw students actively engaging with practical examples from their own experiences, making the session lively and relatable. Many participants described the class as eye-opening and inspiring, commending Dr. Oyebanji’s ability to bridge theory with real-world practice.
“At the end of the lecture, it was clear that Her Excellency had not only imparted knowledge but also rekindled in us a deeper sense of responsibility to lead with fairness, empathy, and vision,” a student remarked.
Dr. Oyebanji’s return to the University of Ibadan—Nigeria’s premier university—underscored her enduring passion for education, leadership development, and capacity building among the nation’s future leaders.
