From Romanus Ugwu, Abuja
Nigeria’s leading think-tank strategic leadership and sustainable development, African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), has envisioned a country where institutions work, justice blind, leadership driven by integrity, accountability, and genuine desire to serve.
Director of Development at the centre, Mrs Margaret Fagboyo, who gave the message of hope, said that, as a passionate Nigerian, she believes in the immense potential of the country, emphasising that her vision for Nigeria is one of hope, transformation, and inclusive growth.
Speaking with newsmen, yesterday, in Abuja, she said: “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.
“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, the Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), his predecessors, Kayode Fayemi and Otunba Niyi Adedayo, including the wife of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Regina Akume, among other dignitaries will storm Abuja to celebrate Fagboyo on her 50th birthday celebration.
Other prominent personalities like Ondo State First Lady, Seun Aiyedatiwa, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye, House of Representatives members, top government officials, top CSO leaders, development experts and many other diplomats will be on ground to honour her.
Fagboyo, Fayemi’s former Special Adviser on Development Partnerships and SDGs, is multi-disciplinary development practitioner whose work has made meaningful impacts across Nigeria and beyond with over two decades of professional experience.
Asked whether she had any regret at 50, the proud mother of three said life has been good to her.
“At 50, I choose gratitude over regret. Life has been good to me at 50, though I 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.”