The 2024 Excellence in Leadership Conference of Daystar Christian Centre, Lagos State, Nigeria once again proved to be a pivotal event, gathering leaders, influencers, and visionaries from various industries. Held on November 7 and 8 at Daystar’s Main Auditorium in Lagos, the theme: “THE INNOVATIVE LEADER,” aimed to equip participants with strategies for creative problem-solving, especially in a rapidly changing world. The event was free and streamed live, reinforcing its commitment to accessible leadership training.
The conference opened with a keynote by the Senior Pastor of DCC, Dr. Sam Adeyemi, who emphasised the need for collaborative leadership.
The leadership expert noted that while individual efforts are commendable, true impact requires partnerships. Using the innovation of the seatbelt by Swedish Engineer, Neel Bobbin, as an example, he highlighted how even simple innovations can drastically improve lives. Adeyemi also spoke about Africa’s untapped potential, referencing the continent’s rich natural resources and stressing the urgency of innovation in addressing societal challenges like food shortages and political instability.
The message of Pastor Sam, as he is popularly called and known, was grounded in the scripture, drawing from 2 Kings 4:2 to remind the audience that God often provides the seeds of resources we need to progress. He encouraged leaders to value time and act deliberately, suggesting that both leadership and innovation are rooted in genuine care and love for others. He recalled the biblical example of Jacob and Esau, contrasting their approaches to resource management as a lesson in reinvestment and innovation.
Pastor Nike Adeyemi followed with an introspective session, urging leaders to reflect on their identity and purpose. She argued that effective leadership starts from within, often beginning at home. Adeyemi shared a profound message about channelling pain and adversity into positive creation, encouraging leaders to transform their challenges into light and solutions. She cited the biblical story of Naaman, a Syrian leader who found healing through humility, as a powerful illustration of transformative leadership.
The third session, led by Victor Gbenga Afolabi, explored the qualities that distinguish innovative leaders. He emphasised that true innovation requires thinking beyond the present, using Noah’s foresight in building the ark as a metaphor for preparing for an unseen future. Afolabi discussed the need for leaders to challenge traditional norms and avoid stagnation, warning against the “Peter Principle” where individuals are promoted based on tenure rather than expertise. He called for insightful leadership, likening innovative leaders to the men of Issachar who understood the times and knew what to do, especially in the face of national challenges.
One of the most talked-about segments was the satirical presentation by Leke Alder, who used a fictional society called: “Garinja” to critique contemporary leadership challenges in Nigeria. Alder’s portrayal highlighted issues like impunity, lack of accountability, and an absence of a clear national vision. He pointed out that many leaders in Garinja relied on power rather than qualifications, often disregarding values like morality and ethical clarity. Alder’s satire was sharp yet thought-provoking, leaving the audience to reflect on the parallels between Garinja and Nigeria, and the urgent need for principled, visionary leadership.
Day 2 had sessions that were also impactful. ID Cabasa, a respected figure in the Nigerian music industry, delivered a session on the importance of humility in learning. He noted that innovation doesn’t always mean creating something entirely new; it can also involve reimagining and improving existing ideas. Addressing generational differences, Cabasa urged the older generations not to dismiss the exuberance of younger ones but to see their unique perspectives as a source of innovation. He differentiated between pride in one’s work, which he deemed necessary, and arrogance, which he cautioned against.
Adaora Mbelu, a brand strategist, added her voice to the discussions on innovation, drawing from her extensive experience in creative storytelling. She likened the process of innovation to finding value in chaos, stating that leaders must shine a light on disorder if they wish to bring about meaningful change. Mbelu challenged the audience to overcome limiting beliefs, such as the fear of failure or the misconception that they lack creativity or resources. She reinforced the idea that God is a God of process, and innovation often requires patience and perseverance through uncertainty.
Throughout the two-day event, the atmosphere was vibrant, with a noticeable increase in attendance compared to previous years. Influential figures from the business world, pastors from various churches, and thought leaders across industries were present, underscoring the significance of ELC as a hub for learning and networking. The diverse lineup of speakers brought a wealth of knowledge, offering practical insights and strategies that participants could immediately apply to their personal and professional lives.
ELC 2024 was a resounding success, challenging attendees to rethink traditional approaches to leadership and embrace innovation as a catalyst for change. The event left a lasting impact, equipping leaders with the tools needed to navigate an increasingly complex and dynamic world. As Daystar Christian Centre continues its tradition of fostering transformative leadership, this year’s conference will be remembered for its bold ideas, inspiring messages, and the powerful call to action for all leaders to innovate with purpose and integrity.
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