Late Steven Makoji Achema memorial lecture: Jerry Gana calls for value-based leadership

Shehu Musa Yar’adua Conference Centre in Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital City on Monday witnessed crème de la crème to commemorate the 25 years demise of Dr. Steven Makoji Achema, alias Alapa.
This is the first time after his demise in 1999 few months after he was appointed by the former President Olusegun Obasanjo as one of his aides.

The 25th years commemoration of Dr Achema brought to live, a man who sacrificed his all for the development of Igala land in Kogi East Senatorial District even as the former Minister of Information, Professor Jerry Gana, has reiterated the need for value-based leadership in Nigeria in a profound lecture he delivered.

The event, held to honor Dr. Achema’s legacy, drew attention to his contributions as a visionary leader and his enduring impact on Kogi State.

Dr. Achema a great Icon and a statesman had a sterling record of service in his profession as Verternary Medicine practitioner as well as an accomplished politician.

Until his death on 6th November 1999, he was a Senior Special Assistant to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

In his address, Prof. Gana praised Dr. Achema’s leadership qualities, describing him as a man of integrity, resilience, and dedication to the welfare of his people.
“Dr. Achema was a leader who embodied character and competence. He believed in building others and fostering excellence in leadership,” Gana said.

On the Challenges of Leadership in Nigeria, the former minister did not shy away from critiquing the state of leadership in Nigeria. He noted that a lack of integrity and accountability among many leaders has hindered the nation’s progress urging citizens to prioritize these qualities when choosing leaders, stating, “Our leaders must inspire trust and be guided by justice and fairness. The rule of law is non-negotiable for national development.”

Highlighting Dr. Achema’s passion for community development, Prof. Gana recounted his initiatives in agriculture, education, security, and resource-based industries. He emphasized the relevance of these efforts, particularly in unlocking Kogi State’s economic potential.

“Dr. Achema envisioned a Kogi State thriving on its abundant natural resources and agricultural wealth. His dream remains a beacon for the state’s future,” Prof. Gana remarked.

The lecture also proposed the establishment of a leadership institute in Nigeria to cultivate future leaders grounded in ethical values.

Prof. Gana called on citizens to engage actively in governance, stressing that democracy thrives when leaders are held accountable.

Prof. Gana passionately highlighted the potential of the Niger and Benue River Basins in transforming Nigeria’s agriculture.

Addressing the Minister of State for Development, he said, “The key to real agricultural transformation is ensuring the Niger and Benue Basins are fully operational. With year-round farming, Nigeria can feed the entire African continent.”

A significant portion of Prof. Gana’s speech was dedicated to the unfinished Ajaokuta Steel Rolling Mill, recalling Dr. Achema’s relentless advocacy for the project,
Gana urged the current administration to prioritize its completion. “If you finish Ajaokuta, you will not only become a hero but also unlock tremendous industrial and economic potential for Nigeria,” he said.

Prof. Gana underscored Kogi State’s immense natural resource wealth, lamenting the lack of resource-based industries to harness these assets.

He called for immediate efforts to establish industries tied to the state’s mineral base, noting, “Kogi is so wealthy. Resource-based industries could turn Kogi into the richest state in Nigeria. This is an opportunity that must not be wasted.”

Citing Dr. Achema’s passion for education, Gana emphasized its role as a catalyst for societal transformation. “Education is the foundation of progress. When you transform the people through education, they will, in turn, transform society,” he said, encouraging Kogi to build on its historical legacy of educational excellence.

In an emotional appeal, Prof. Gana urged Kogi’s people to foster unity and self-love to drive development. “God loves Kogi, but Kogi must learn to love itself. With your resources, there is no reason for poverty,” he said, adding that unity among citizens is essential for progress.

Prof. Gana’s remarks served as both a tribute to Dr. Achema’s enduring legacy and a call to action for Kogi State and Nigeria at large. “Dr. Achema’s vision lives on. Let us honor him by taking bold steps toward the development he dreamed of for Kogi State and Nigeria,” Gana concluded, earning a standing ovation.
The event was a poignant reminder of Dr. Achema’s contributions and a renewed call for leadership committed to transforming lives and communities.

The event celebrated Dr. Achema’s life and work while offering a roadmap for addressing the challenges of governance in Nigeria. “Dr. Achema’s legacy is a testament to the transformative power of value-based leadership. Let his example inspire us to build a better Nigeria,” Prof. Gana concluded.