By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
The Federal Government’s effort towards redefining leadership in public service has received a boost, with the launch of the Leadership Excellence in Africa’s Public Service (LEAPS) Program.
The programme, which is anchored by African Capacity Building Foundation, is a response to the demand for visionary, innovative, and ethical leadership in the public service in the continent.
The programme aimed at redefining public sector leadership.
With the launch, Nigeria has joined Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Senegal and Zimbabwe on the LEAPS programme.
The programme which is anchored by African Capacity Building Foundation is a response to the demand for visionary, innovative, and ethical leadership in the public service in the continent.
Launching the programme, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Finance, Lydia Jafiya, stressed the importance of the programme, saying it is to throw up transformative leaders in the public service.
Jafiya, who was represented by Mr. Ibrahim Abubakar Matazu, Deputy Director, Int’l Development Fund Federal Ministry of Finance stressed that the public service remains the backbone of governance, tasked with delivering policies and services that uplift millions.
He said: “The LEAPS Program, pioneered by the African Capacity Building Foundation, is more than a training initiative; it is a clarion call to redefine public sector leadership across our continent.
“In Nigeria, a nation central to Africa’s economic and demographic landscape, the demand for visionary, innovative, and ethical leaders has never been greater. Our public service is the backbone of governance, tasked with delivering policies and services that uplift millions.
“The LEAPS Program is designed to empower directorate-level officers like you with the skills, mindset, and strategic acumen to navigate complex challenges and catalyze sustainable development.
“What sets LEAPS apart is its focus on fostering transformative leadership that goes beyond technical expertise.”
The Deputy Director noted that the programme draws from the success of its inaugural cohort, launched in Zimbabwe in November 2024, where LEAPS emphasizes competencies in leadership, strategic thinking, and innovation—qualities essential for addressing Nigeria’s unique priorities, from economic diversification to inclusive governance.
“This program aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, equipping leaders to champion a prosperous and resilient Africa.”
He urged selected participants from Nigeria to engage in dynamic learning, share best practices, and build networks that transcend borders, joining a pan-African movement of public servants committed to excellence.
“The ACBF’s vision, as echoed by leaders like Hon. Adama Coulibaly of Côte d’Ivoire, is to create a public sector that is not only effective but also a catalyst for transformative change. Today, we take a bold step toward realizing that vision in Nigeria.
“I urge you to seize this opportunity to hone your leadership, challenge conventional approaches, and drive policies that deliver tangible results for our people.
“Together, we can build a public service that is responsive, inclusive, and forward-thinking, ensuring Nigeria’s rightful place as a leader in Africa’s development,” he said.
Mr. Bakary Kone, Senior Advisor to the Executive Secretary, for Strategy and Partnerships said LEAPS is about investing in people, in potential, and in purpose-driven leadership.