Famous Leaders Are Made Not Born -By Sumayya Umar

A leader is someone who has the ability and desire to motivate and influence those around him. It has been a subject of discussion, whether a leader is made or born. While some individuals think that great leaders are born with certain qualities, others are certain that leadership skills can be learnt and developed over time. Leadership is a necessary provision, and we must all agree to that. However, great leaders are made, not born.

The majority of leaders neither uphold their legacy nor do anything to suggest that they would be good ones. Not every great leader was born by a great leader. For instance, Obama’s parents were never leaders in the world; yet, their son (Barack Obama) has been able to develop his leadership abilities to lead one of the most powerful countries in the world. Therefore, the best leaders in this situation are not born, but made as previously stated.

Furthermore, looking at the political leaders in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, one would be amazed to find out that most of these leaders were made not born. Why? Because before one is qualified for any political position, one must have acquired certain educational qualifications. For instance, for you to contest for presidential or governorship position in Nigeria, you must be able to read, write and converse effectively in English Language. In addition to this, you must have attained, at least, secondary education or its equivalent. This, points to the fact that leaders are not necessarily born, but made.

Usually, becoming a leader begins with a personal choice. Despite the fact that some qualities that make up effective leadership skills like Intelligence, wisdom, empathy, compassion and vision are ingrained. these all, are not enough criteria to make one a great leader.

Leadership talents are not typically inherited traits. Therefore, an individual should go through numerous learning steps before becoming a great leader. They research other leaders, attempt to emulate their behaviors, and pick role models. Due to Abraham Lincoln’s intelligence and leadership abilities, the majority of American leaders have picked him as their role model.

It is true that great leaders can make mistakes, but with the advice they receive from many sources, they can easily develop their abilities. They are able to change their behaviors for the better, which aids in their development as leaders.

In Nigeria, Leaders like Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Chief Obafemi Owolowo and Sir Tafawa Balewa, were truly great leaders that were made not born considering their humble background.

In conclusion, it is noteworthy that famous leaders are always made through education, learning from other great leaders and training. To lead effectively therefore, one does not need to be born a leader, but one can attain leadership position through learning and training. Thus, famous leaders are made, not born.

Sumayya Umar wrote from NTIC College, Kaduna.