Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), His Excellency, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has challenged emerging leaders across the country to embrace purposeful leadership anchored on impact rather than personal or political interests.
Shaibu made this call while delivering a keynote address titled “Politics for Impact vs Pressures of Interest” at the Summit 5.0 held at Four Points by Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos, on April 4, 2026.
The event brought together young leaders from diverse backgrounds, including Christian and non-Christian communities.
Drawing from his personal journey from humble beginnings in Kaduna to becoming Deputy Governor of Edo State and now leading the NIS, Shaibu stressed that leadership is defined by daily choices between service to the common good and yielding to pressures of self-interest.
He identified several forces that often derail leaders from their purpose, including political godfatherism, ethnic and religious loyalties, financial temptations, party pressures, and the lure of public approval.
According to him, these pressures are constant and real, but must be consciously resisted to preserve integrity and deliver meaningful change.
In a statement by Ben Ogbemudia, his S. A. Media, he said “True leadership is measured not by how much power you accumulate, but by how many lives you improve,”
He noted that the failure of many leaders stems from surrendering to these pressures at the expense of the people they serve.
The former Edo State Deputy Governor emphasized the need for value-driven leadership, urging young people to clearly define their principles before stepping into positions of authority.
He encouraged them to prioritize service, remain accountable, and build alliances based on shared values rather than convenience.
Shaibu also highlighted the importance of transparency, describing it as a critical tool in combating corruption and building trust.
He noted that systems of accountability, clear performance benchmarks, and open governance are essential in sustaining impact-driven leadership.
Reflecting on his tenure at the National Institute for Sports, Shaibu pointed to ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning the institution.
These, he said, are built on four pillars: revitalization, rebuilding, rebranding, and relaunching, with the goal of transforming NIS into a hub for youth empowerment, job creation, and national development.
He further urged leaders to embrace stewardship, reminding them that public office is a temporary trust, not a personal entitlement.
He cautioned against compromising values for short-term gains, stressing that integrity, once lost, is difficult to regain.
In his closing remarks, Shaibu called on emerging leaders to remain steadfast in the face of challenges, seek mentorship from individuals of proven integrity, and build systems that will outlast their tenure.
“The choice between impact and interest is one you will face repeatedly. When that moment comes, let your values guide you,” he said.
The NIS boss expressed confidence in the next generation of leaders, urging them to rise with courage, wisdom, and a commitment to nation-building.