HAVEK Leadership Academy trains Over 4,800 Value-Added Leaders in 3 years
August 21, 2023
By Akeem Alao
HAVEK Leadership Academy has trained over 4,800 value-added leaders in 3 years.
This was disclosed during a comprehensive review of the institute’s objectives and aspirations at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on August 20, 2023, at the Lagos State Secretariat Mosque conference room in Alausa, Ikeja.
Attended by prominent members of the management of the academy, the AGM encompassed deliberations on the institute’s operational and financial status over the preceding two years.
At this inaugural AGM session, Mr. Niyi Yusuf, the Chairman of the academy, elucidated that HAVEK Leadership Academy stands as one of the initiatives orchestrated by Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT) to nurture the potential of youth and professionals, ultimately fostering their development into impactful and ethically-conscious leaders.
Yusuf stated that the academy transcends the mere cultivation of leadership qualities; it also provides participants with a grounding in Islamic principles, aiming to fortify their leadership prowess with a solid ethical foundation.
Delving into the academy’s broader societal role, Yusuf emphasised, “Islam constitutes a comprehensive way of life,” one that extends beyond mere religious adherence and encompasses principles guiding self-organisation.
Addressing the existing landscape, he acknowledged the presence of Muslims in significant leadership roles and within industrial sectors. However, he underscored that the core challenge facing leadership, particularly in Nigeria, lies in its lack of thorough consideration and study.
Yusuf advocated for a shift in perspective, stating that leadership is both a developed skill and a cultivated aptitude.
He posited that effective leadership necessitates training, capacity building, and mentoring, turning it into a professional discipline.
Identifying the connection between the country’s turmoil and ineffective leadership, Yusuf opined that “aspiring leaders should thoroughly understand themselves, the responsibilities of the positions they seek, and evaluate their own qualifications.”
Regarding President Tinubu’s appointment of ministry leaders, Yusuf commended the selection of individuals with integrity, expressing confidence that a substantial percentage of these appointees would meet public expectations.
Commenting on the uneven commissioner selection by Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Yusuf traced the issue back to a historical lack of western education among the previous Muslim generation.
“historically, the Muslim generation before now did not acquire enough western education. Our parents made a mistake by emphasising only Arabic education. This is major reason the Muslims are short changed by the governments.”
He urged present Muslim parents to prioritize a balanced education and encourage their children to enroll in HAVEK’s leadership programmes.
AbdulWasiu Ayoola, the General Manager of the institute, revealed that since its establishment in 2019, over 4,800 individuals have been trained across various leadership skills.
He stated that “The institute aims to address the scarcity of value-driven leaders using Islamic perspectives and welcomes both Christian and Muslim participants.”
Ayoola emphasised that the institute’s focus extends beyond leadership training, encompassing social life and entrepreneurship. He announced the coming graduation of the current participants, comprising both women and youth, by the end of the year.
“We train both the Christians and Muslims. It is not faith based alone. We observed a dearth of quality leaders and the institute exists to change the ugly narrative,” he said.
He added, “Our focus are the youths and professionals. Our programmes, apart from the leadership training, focus more on social life and entrepreneurship.
By December this year, we will graduate the current set, comprised of women and youth.”
Fatai Olayemi, a director at HAVEK Leadership Academy, articulated the institution’s goal of nurturing leaders who exemplify reverence for Allah.
He affirmed that the institute is charting programmes designed to collaborate with other Islamic organisations.
Dr. Rahmat Adisa, the Board Secretary, emphasised that HAVEK serves the Ummah and noted the acquired training’s potential to positively transform society.
The National General Secretary of NASFAT Society and Representative of the National Executive Council (NEC) at the AGM, Daud Sunmonu, expressed contentment with the institute’s progress and encouraged further development.
An Executive of the National Council of Elders (NCOE) of NASFAT Society, Arch Hafeez Akiyode, who represented the NCOE, proposed the establishment of a permanent facility for institute programmes. He suggested partnerships with higher institutions and schools. Such collaborations, he believed, would enhance the academy’s reputation.
The highlight of the AGM was the presentation of the audited financial statement, reports of directors and auditors for the the 2021- 2022 years.