Abuja, Nigeria - Principal officers of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), including Deans and Directors from various faculties and directorates, have been urged to embrace leadership characterized by integrity, vision, and courage. This call to action came during a recent leadership training workshop designed to empower them to exceed expectations in their respective roles.

The Vice-Chancellor, represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Prof. Isaac Butswat, emphasized the critical link between leadership and impact. He stated, ‘’Leadership is not about titles, but about impact. The true measure of our work is not only in what we achieve individually but in how we empower others to achieve more.’’

The 3-day training workshop, themed “Developing Effective Leaders,” took place in Abuja from August 20-22, 2025. The event was a collaborative effort between Balanced Scorecard West Africa (BSWA) and NOUN's Staff Training and Development (ST&D) unit.

The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the significance of the workshop, stating it was more than just a training session, but rather “a platform for reflection, renewal, and reimagining how we lead. Our students, faculties, and the broader community are looking to us for guidance. Let us not only meet those expectations but exceed them.’’

Prof. Butswat, representing the VC, reminded the Deans and Directors that their roles extend beyond administrative duties. “You are visionaries, mentors, and decision-makers. The way you lead influences policies and processes and sets the tone for the students, faculty, and staff.” He added, ‘’Your leadership ripples outward shaping the culture of excellence, innovation and accountability within your schools and department.”

The VC further emphasized the need for adaptability in the ever-evolving educational landscape. ‘’In today's rapidly changing educational landscape, we are challenged to think differently. The world is demanding graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also adaptable, ethical, and globally minded. This requires us to be bold in our planning, collaborative in our approach, and innovative in our solutions.”

According to the VC, ‘’Training such as this, provides us with the tools to sharpen our leadership, as well as pause and pose important questions: Are we aligning our decisions with the larger mission and vision of our institution? Are we cultivating a culture that values inclusivity, creativity and continuous improvement? Are we preparing the next generation not just for jobs but for leadership in society? among others’’.

He urged the participants to actively engage in the training, sharing their experiences and learning from one another, stating, “Together, we can strengthen our leadership capacity and ensure that our institution remains a place of excellence and inspiration.”

Mr. Oladipo Ajayi, the Registrar, in a welcome address delivered by Dr. Muyiwa Akintola, Director of Human Resources, encouraged full participation in the training to enhance their skills and capabilities. He also expressed gratitude to the management for organizing the training and to the Deans and Directors for their commitment despite their demanding schedules.

Mr. Kayode Sufianu, representing the training consultant, highlighted the workshop's focus on individual skills development for effective leadership. He emphasized the importance of assessing and utilizing necessary capabilities to improve leadership effectiveness and encouraged active participation through interactive sessions, discussions, and group exercises.

Mrs. Eunice Riki, Director of ST&D, expressed gratitude to the management for their support in hosting the training program. She characterized the training as “another demonstration of management’s unwavering commitment to capacity building, leadership development, and the continuous strengthening of our great institution.”

She also extended her appreciation to the Deans and Directors for their participation, stating, “Your presence and willingness to engage in this programme underscores the importance you attach to professional growth and institutional development.” Riki further thanked the facilitators and the organizing team for their dedicated efforts.

The workshop covered a range of topics, including effective coaching and mentoring in the workplace, performance measurements and monitoring, strategic communication, the role of data in decision-making, and practical applications for facilitating skills acquisition. Interactive hands-on exercises and class discussions were incorporated into the sessions.