Most Nigerian Leaders Unprepared and Lack Focus, Says Bishop Kukah

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, has criticised Nigeria’s leadership history, saying most of the country’s presidents assumed power through unpredictable and often accidental circumstances. Speaking in Abuja on Sunday at the Amaka Ndoma-Egba Memorial Lecture, Bishop Kukah delivered a candid assessment of Nigeria’s political journey, describing it as marked by unpreparedness and lack of foresight.  

While expressing concern about President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, despite his claims of readiness for the presidency, the cleric opined that Tinubu is “clearly struggling,” and the nation is still “trying to find its footing.” He compared Tinubu’s tenure to that of past leaders, pointing out a recurring pattern of leaders taking office under unusual circumstances without the necessary preparation.  

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Bishop Kukah traced this pattern back through recent history, noting how Goodluck Jonathan became president unexpectedly following the death of Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who himself had intended to return to academia after serving as governor. 

He called for better preparation and leadership foresight to guide the nation’s complex political landscape and ensure lasting progress for its citizens.