LONDON, 26 June 2025 – Kingsley Moghalu, a prominent Nigerian economist and former deputy governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, has sparked a fresh debate on the state of leadership in Africa. In a pointed statement shared on X today, Moghalu argued that the continent’s leadership woes stem from a fundamental misinterpretation of what it means to lead.

“The ultimate problem with the concept of leadership in Africa is that it is interpreted almost exclusively as authority and power, rarely as responsibility,” Moghalu wrote. His remarks highlight a stark contrast between African governance and that of developed nations, where, he noted, “governance systems and rule of law are supreme & must be respected.”

Moghalu’s critique paints a vivid picture of a continent where systems often “bow to egos,” prioritising personal ambition over institutional integrity. This, he suggests, is at the heart of Africa’s governance challenges, hindering progress and accountability.

Many see Professor Moghalu’s statement as a call for a cultural shift in African leadership. Moghalu, conferred with the Nigerian national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), is known for his incisive commentary on governance and economic development.

As Africa grapples with complex challenges, from economic inequality to political instability, Moghalu’s words underscore the need for leaders who prioritise responsibility over power. Whether his remarks will inspire change remains to be seen, but they have undoubtedly reignited a critical conversation about the future of leadership on the continent.