Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called for a new generation of technology-driven leaders to secure Nigeria’s future, warning that emerging disruptions powered by artificial intelligence demand a fresh leadership approach.
Speaking on Thursday at the Foundation Day lecture of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), the governor emphasised that the nation’s economic and technological advancement hinges on the quality of its leadership and the strength of its educational institutions.
Delivering a lecture titled “Leadership and Organisational Performance: Technology as a Driver,” Aiyedatiwa maintained that while technology continues to evolve rapidly, leadership remains the defining force shaping society’s direction.
He dismissed fears that artificial intelligence could supplant human leadership, stressing that qualities such as wisdom, sound judgment, and emotional intelligence cannot be replicated by machines.
According to him, universities play a critical role beyond awarding degrees, serving as breeding grounds for individuals capable of navigating complex global challenges.
Aiyedatiwa commended FUTA for its consistent production of resilient and globally competitive graduates, urging higher institutions to stay committed to building human capital essential for national development.
“Leadership is a key determinant of organisational success. It shapes vision, mobilises resources, and drives the attainment of strategic goals,” he said.
The governor further stressed that modern leadership must embrace innovation, noting that institutions like FUTA remain strategic platforms for nurturing globally competitive leaders equipped with both technological insight and human understanding.
He added that societies positioned to thrive in the future will be those that deliberately cultivate leaders who understand the intersection of human dynamics and emerging technologies.
In her remarks, FUTA Vice-Chancellor, Adenike Oladiji, described the institution as a forward-looking academic environment that integrates technology with the humanities to address societal challenges.
Oladiji highlighted the indispensable role of technology in the digital age, noting that effective leadership increasingly depends on collaboration between academia and industry.
She also commended the Ondo State Government for its continued support, particularly in infrastructure development and the upgrade of the State Specialist Hospital into a teaching hospital.
