Selfless Leadership: A Call For Politicians To Serve Nigerians With Humility

By ISAAC ASABOR

In the tapestry of life’s challenges and triumphs, the words of Philippians 2:3-4 offer a guiding light: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves. Everyone should look not to his interests but rather to the interests of others.”

This scripture is more than just a spiritual warning; it is a framework for leadership, a beacon for service, and a call for selfless governance. In the context of Nigeria’s political landscape, these verses resonate deeply, highlighting what is sorely missing in the corridors of power: humility, empathy, and a commitment to the common good.

The twin evils of selfish ambition and conceit have long plagued Nigerian politics. Many politicians view public office as an opportunity to enrich themselves and their cronies rather than a platform to serve the people who entrusted them with power. This culture of self-centred governance is evident in the disparity between the lavish lifestyles of those in power and the daily struggles of the average Nigerian.

While millions grapple with poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to basic amenities, political leaders flaunt ostentatious wealth. It is as though the words of Philippians 2:3-4 are forgotten, replaced by a drive for personal gain at the expense of the nation’s welfare.

The scripture challenges leaders to look beyond themselves and prioritise the interests of others. This is not a call for performative humility but for genuine servant leadership. True leadership, as modelled by Christ, is rooted in selflessness, empathy, and the recognition that every decision made impacts real lives.

For Nigeria’s politicians, this means listening to the people. Therefore, governance must begin with understanding the needs of the citizenry. Leaders must leave their ivory towers and engage directly with the people they serve. Policies crafted in isolation, without input from the masses, often fail to address the real issues.

Secondly, Nigerian politicians must fight for equity and justice. They should understand that humility in governance means creating systems that work for everyone, not just a privileged few. It means ensuring that resources are distributed fairly, infrastructure reaches all corners of the nation, and every Nigerian has a chance to thrive.

Thirdly, Nigerian politicians must be accountable to the people. Being accountable to the people is germane for Nigerian politicians, as the interest of the nation must supersede personal gain. Politicians should be willing to answer for their actions, be transparent in their dealings, and be open to criticism.

Fourthly, Nigerians should always endeavour to be leading sacrificially. This is as true leaders often make sacrifices for the greater good. This may mean rejecting the allure of corruption, working long hours to solve pressing issues, or prioritising the welfare of citizens over personal comfort.

In fact, the reason for demanding the foregoing expectations from Nigerian politicians, as highlighted in the foregoing viewpoints, cannot be pooh-poohed with a mere wave of the hands, as the Nigerian reality is unarguably that of a leadership deficit.

From independence to the present, Nigeria has experienced a litany of unfulfilled promises and missed opportunities, largely due to the lack of selfless leadership. The selfish ambition of a few has robbed the nation of its potential.

The recent removal of fuel subsidies and the palliative measures proposed have starkly exposed the gap between the ruling class and the people. While politicians speak of economic reform and growth, the man in the street struggles to afford a meal. A true commitment to Philippians 2:3-4 would mean crafting policies that ease the burden on the masses, not exacerbate their struggles.

Consider the ongoing failure to address key sectors such as education, healthcare, and security. A leader who genuinely places others before themselves would prioritise these areas, knowing they are the bedrock of a thriving society.

While Nigeria has its share of challenges, there have been shining examples of leaders who embodied humility and service. Leaders like Nelson Mandela remind us of what is possible when a politician prioritises the interests of the people above personal ambition. Mandela’s willingness to forgive and work towards a united South Africa serves as a template for leaders everywhere.

In Nigeria, we have seen glimpses of such leadership in individuals who have dedicated themselves to public service with integrity. These examples, though rare, remind us that humility in governance is not a myth but a possibility.

For Nigeria to rise above its challenges, our leaders must embrace the principles of Philippians 2:3–4. It begins with a shift in mindset, thus, from rulers to servants. In fact, given the foregoing backdrop, politicians must see themselves as servants of the people, entrusted with the responsibility of governance.

In a similar vein, there must be a shift in mindset, from personal gain to public good. Without a doubt, decisions should prioritise what benefits the majority, not the pockets of a few. Also, there should be a shift in mindset from conceit to collaboration. In fact, leadership requires collaboration with all stakeholders, citizens, civil society, and even political opponents, to build a stronger nation.

Contextually analysing this issue from the perspective of a role for citizens, it is expedient to opine that while this article focuses on politicians, the responsibility also lies with the electorate. Nigerians must demand accountability, transparency, and humility from their leaders. Elections should be a time to reward selfless service and reject selfish ambition.

Moreover, citizens can embody these principles in their daily lives, fostering a culture of humility and service that transcends political affiliations and strengthens the nation’s moral fabric.

Philippians 2:3-4 challenges all of us, especially those in positions of power, to act selflessly and prioritise the needs of others. Nigeria’s politicians must internalise these values if the country is to move forward. The current realities demand leaders who will serve with humility, placing the interests of the people above their own.

This is not just a spiritual ideal; it is a practical necessity. Selfless leadership is the cornerstone of good governance and the pathway to a better Nigeria. Let every leader remember that true greatness lies not in how much you accumulate for yourself but in how much you give to those you serve.