What Kind of Leader Will Thrive in Africa?

This article discusses the context-specific factors that leaders must take into account when managing people and doing business in Africa, mainly sub-Saharan Africa and in particular, Nigeria. The author draws on several studies she has done as director of the Center for Research in Leadership and Ethics at Lagos Business School. First, she describes the general sociocultural context of sub-Saharan Africa. Then, she highlights the appropriate leadership qualities that are needed to succeed in this context. Finally, she reflects on whether the same principles hold true for the Millennial generation, based on her research of young Nigerian graduates. Their shifting preferences must be noted, she says, both to engage them today and also because they represent the African leaders of tomorrow.