"EMPOWER OTHERS TODAY, BUILD A LEGACY THAT LASTS FOREVER"

 

"WHAT WILL YOU BE REMEMBERED FOR? USE POWER TO EMPOWER BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE"

One of the most important lessons in leadership is the value of helping others while you are in office. The people you empower today may be the very ones who stand by you when it matters most.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains a master of political strategy, largely because he built a legacy of empowering others. Many of his current allies, appointees, and loyalists rose through his support years ago. Today, they form the foundation of his political machinery.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole is another notable figure. His tenure as Governor of Edo State and his leadership in the labour and political space were marked by creating opportunities for those loyal to him—and they have remained loyal ever since.

From Northern Nigeria, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Governor of Kano State and leader of the Kwankwasiyya movement, is a shining example. He invested heavily in youth empowerment, education, and public service appointments. Many of his protégés now hold strategic positions across the country, and they remain fiercely loyal to him.

Even at the grassroots, leaders like Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State continue to empower the people through purposeful governance, rebuilding lives, and offering roles to competent individuals—actions that secure loyalty and respect in return.

A striking example is Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the FCT. Wike understands the power of rewarding loyalty. Two of his close allies—both former governors—recently made the ambassadorial list. This is a direct result of his consistent commitment to uplifting those around him.

Now ask yourself: 35 years in a ministry, MDA, agency, board, or parastatal—and the only thing you can boast of is the number of cars and houses you own? That is failure. If someone helped you secure your job decades ago, and 35 years later you can't name one person you helped in return, your legacy is empty. A good name is better than great riches.

If you're in a position of power and no one can point to a job, contract, or appointment they got through your influence, then it's time to reflect. Leadership is not about titles—it's about impact.

When your time in office ends, it’s those you lifted up that will become your defenders, supporters, and lifelines. Tomorrow always comes. When it does, your legacy will be measured by how many people rose because of you.

So, start empowering people today—through jobs, contracts, mentorship, and appointments. Don’t wait until you’re out of office to say, “Had I known.” Learn to serve loyalty while you still have the power to do so.

COPIED.