By Romanus Ugwu, Abuja
The African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), a leading Nigerian think-tank focused on strategic leadership and sustainable development, has envisioned a Nigeria where institutions function effectively, justice is impartial, and leadership is driven by integrity, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve.
Director of Development at the Centre, Dr Margaret Fagboyo, shared this message of hope in a press interaction on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in Abuja. She expressed her belief in Nigeria’s immense potential, stating that her vision is one of hope, transformation, and inclusive growth.
“I long to see a Nigeria where leadership is driven by integrity, accountability, and a genuine desire to serve—not self. A Nigeria where our diversity becomes our strength, not our division,” Fagboyo said. “I envision a country where institutions work—where justice is blind, opportunities are accessible, and every citizen feels seen, heard, and valued. A land where young people can dream boldly and achieve greatly without having to look beyond our borders. Where women, men, and all marginalised groups are fully included in governance and development.
“Going forward, I expect Nigeria to rise beyond the grip of corruption, insecurity, and poverty. I expect us to prioritise education, invest in healthcare, secure our streets, and harness our vast resources—both human and natural—for the common good. The road may be long, but I believe in the resilience and brilliance of Nigerians. Together, with vision, courage, and collective action, we can build the Nigeria we all desire—a nation that works, not just for a few, but for all.”
Meanwhile, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), alongside his predecessors Kayode Fayemi and Otunba Niyi Adedayo, and the wife of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Regina Akume, among other dignitaries, will gather in Abuja on Saturday, June 28, 2025, to celebrate Fagboyo’s 50th birthday. Other notable figures expected include Ondo State First Lady Seun Aiyedatiwa, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Adeoye Aribasoye, House of Representatives members, top government officials, civil society organisation (CSO) leaders, development experts, and diplomats.
Fagboyo, a former Special Adviser on Development Partnerships and SDGs to Kayode Fayemi, is a multi-disciplinary development practitioner with over two decades of professional experience, making significant impacts across Nigeria and beyond. She currently serves as the Director of Development at Centre LSD and is the Executive Director of Inclusive Pathway Development Initiative (IPADEV).
Reflecting on her life at 50, the proud mother of three and loving wife said, “At 50, I choose gratitude over regret. Life has been good to me, though I’ve experienced some challenges too, but every high and low has shaped the woman I am today—stronger, wiser, and more grounded.
“If there is any regret, it would only be moments I doubted myself, delayed my dreams, or dimmed my light to make others comfortable. But even those moments taught me valuable lessons. So, no deep regrets, just reflections, lessons, and a deeper resolve to live the rest of my life with more intention, joy, and courage. I am embracing this new chapter with open arms and a heart full of purpose.”