Understanding Leadership Through the Eyes of Student Leaders
Final-year senior secondary students at the International School, Ibadan, who hold leadership positions in their school, have shared their perspectives on what leadership means to them. Their insights were gained through a recent leadership programme organised by Equip Nigeria. Here are their reflections on leadership and its impact on their lives.
Perspectives from Student Leaders
Okeowo Ayomikun, ICT Prefect
Leadership is not just a role; it is a mission that requires certain qualities or virtues. These include a good attitude, maintaining positive relationships, and personal growth. A leader must groom themselves to be able to help others grow. Living a life of significance is essential in fulfilling one’s duties because living with impact is one of the key elements needed to achieve one’s destiny. Success is not only about personal achievements but also about the significance one brings to others.
Adebayo-Oke Ewaoluwa, Assistant Head Girl
Leadership is a common word, yet its importance is often underestimated. The training provided a new understanding of leadership, which I had never known before. The most important lesson I learned is that leadership is influence. It is the ability to change one’s environment through actions. Leadership is a contradiction—it combines authority and service, power and humility. A good leader must be able to develop the people they lead.
Akpan Eti-Fiok Obong, Sport Prefect
During the training, I learned many things that broadened my understanding and mindset, helping me become a better person. I particularly enjoyed the round-table discussions where we covered topics such as attitude, growth, priority, relationships, intentional living, and actions. The most important topic for me was my relationship with God. I also learned how to plan my day effectively. John C. Maxwell once said that we should always make good memories with people.
Odusanya Ohuninioluwa, Head Boy
Leadership is a huge responsibility. During the few weeks of training, I saw and was told about many positive changes in my life. Recently, I had the responsibility of writing a speech for a conference, and I was able to do it thanks to the skills I gained from the training. John C. Maxwell emphasized the importance of being proactive rather than reactive.
Lai-Folorunsho Eniola, Head Girl
The past few weeks have been very impactful. The training sessions uplifted me positively. One perspective I learned is that leadership is a journey, not a destination. To grow, teachability must be intentionally practiced. On relationships, I realized the importance of building good and worthwhile connections with people. John Maxwell said, “What is worthwhile is uphill.” I have come to understand that success and significance are two different things.
Udoh Micah, Assistant Head Boy
Growth is the greatest predictor of a person’s success. Your attitude determines who you are, how you treat others, and how you are treated. Your attitude influences people, and the way you prioritize your goals and live your life determines your success. Personal growth should be an intentional act. The training taught me how to improve my personal growth and develop better ways of living. Being proactive is better than being reactive, and working smarter is better than working harder.
Additional Insights
The training has left a lasting impression on these student leaders, shaping their views on leadership and personal development. Their experiences highlight the importance of self-awareness, influence, and intentional growth in becoming effective leaders.