The heart of service

By: Hon IG Amaechi Okoro

Leadership is not about power or prestige; it is about service rooted in empathy and a deep understanding of the struggles of others. True leaders, whether in politics or ministry, must prioritize the welfare of those they serve, using their positions as platforms for transformative change. Unfortunately, many Nigerian leaders today have lost touch with this essence of leadership, leaving the masses to fend for themselves in a world filled with unfulfilled promises and misplaced priorities.

In Nigeria, the challenges faced by ordinary citizens are overwhelming. Poverty, insecurity, unemployment, and corruption continue to plague the nation, and many people live in despair. In their desperation, they often turn to those in power, hoping for solutions. But instead of finding solace, they encounter a cycle of exploitation.

During election seasons, corrupt politicians flood communities with empty promises, exploiting the hunger and desperation of the masses for votes. After securing power, these leaders vanish, ignoring the cries of the people who once supported them. The religious space is no better. Many self-proclaimed prophets and pastors exploit the spiritual and emotional needs of their congregations, offering false hope in exchange for material gain.

This unending cycle of exploitation highlights a critical failure: a lack of compassionate leadership. Leaders across all sectors must revisit their purpose and commit to serving the people with integrity and sincerity.

What Do the People Need?

The Bible offers timeless lessons on addressing the needs of the people. In Matthew 15:29-37, Jesus is moved with compassion for a hungry crowd. Instead of dismissing them, He asks, “How many loaves have we?” This question underscores a powerful truth: solutions often lie in the resources we already possess.

In the Nigerian context, these “loaves” represent the tools and opportunities within our reach:

Knowledge and Skills: Expertise gained through education and experience.

Positions of Influence: Political and spiritual roles that can drive change.

Faith and Spiritual Discipline: A reliance on God’s power and guidance.

Humility and Obedience: A willingness to serve without seeking personal glory. The critical question remains: how many leaders are willing to offer their resources selflessly to address the needs of the people?

Compassionate leadership goes beyond rhetoric. It is about stepping into the shoes of others, understanding their pain, and committing to action. It requires selflessness, humility, and a genuine desire to serve.

Jesus’ leadership provides a perfect model. He met both the spiritual and physical needs of the people, feeding them, healing them, and giving them hope. In contrast, many leaders today are more concerned with personal ambition than the welfare of the people. The result is a society where the powerful thrive at the expense of the powerless.

For Nigeria to move forward, leaders in all spheres must embrace the following principles:

Prioritize the People: Leadership is about meeting the needs of those you serve. Policies and initiatives should address critical issues like poverty, education, and healthcare.

Listen Actively: Compassion begins with understanding. Leaders must take the time to listen to the concerns and aspirations of the people.

Lead with Accountability: True leaders are transparent and take responsibility for their actions. They must ensure their decisions align with the greater good.

Utilize Available Resources: Like Jesus with the loaves and fish, leaders should maximize the resources they have to create meaningful impact.

Serve Quietly and Genuinely: Leadership is not about self-promotion. Genuine service often happens quietly and without fanfare.

Seek Divine Guidance: No leader can succeed without wisdom and strength from God. Prayer, fasting, and spiritual discipline are essential.

The plight of the Nigerian people is a clarion call for leaders to rise above selfish ambition and embrace true service. It is time to redefine leadership as a commitment to uplifting others rather than a means of personal gain. Whether in politics, ministry, or business, every leader must answer this question: “What can I offer to make a difference?”

The crowd is hungry—not just for food, but for justice, equity, and hope. As leaders, the challenge is to provide solutions, not excuses; action, not rhetoric. Let us ask God for the courage and wisdom to lead with compassion, humility, and integrity.

In Isaiah 25:6-10, the Lord promises a feast for all people, symbolizing abundance, unity, and restoration. As we work toward this vision, may we be instruments of His grace, using our positions to build a society where everyone can thrive.

True service and leadership is not about titles or accolades. It is about serving with compassion and making a lasting impact on the lives of others. May this be the legacy of our generation of leaders.

By: Hon IG Amaechi Okoro

Head: Media Directorate COPDEM Delta State

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