Former Savannah Regional Minister, Hon. Saeed Muhazu Jibril, has underscored the need for purposeful leadership development among politicians, calling for a shift from follower-based politics to the deliberate grooming of future leaders.
Speaking on Spear FM’s “This is Savannah Super Morning Show” on Friday, June 19, 2026, Hon. Jibril emphasized that leadership must be measured by impact and legacy rather than popularity. He noted that true leadership goes beyond commanding large followings and instead focuses on empowering others to rise.
“Leadership is not about creating followers who hail and praise you. Leadership is about creating leaders, people who can stand on their own and make meaningful impact even in your absence,” he stated.
He stressed that any leader who fails to uplift others ultimately falls short of true leadership, regardless of how many supporters they command. According to him, the true test of leadership is whether one’s influence transforms lives and builds capacity.
“As a leader, when you are growing, you must grow with the people. If thousands follow you and their lives remain unchanged, then that is not meaningful leadership,” he added.
Hon. Jibril also called on politicians, business leaders, and individuals in positions of influence to invest intentionally in human development, particularly in the Savannah Region. He highlighted the importance of building both human capital and economic strength as a foundation for sustainable progress.
In a reflection on leadership traits, he praised the humility and personal conduct of President John Dramani Mahama, describing his personality as one that young politicians across the world should learn from. He revealed that President Mahama reached out to him personally during his recovery from an accident, describing the gesture as a demonstration of empathetic leadership.
Beyond leadership ideals, Hon. Jibril cautioned members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) against internal divisions as the party prepares for its constituency and regional elections. He warned that disunity could weaken the party’s prospects in the 2028 general elections and urged aspirants to approach the process with maturity and a shared sense of purpose.
“These internal elections should not be a do-or-die affair. At the end of the day, we need each other. Leadership also means managing differences and maintaining unity,” he said.
He further used the opportunity to express gratitude to key national and traditional leaders, as well as institutions and individuals who supported him during his accident and recovery. Among those he acknowledged were the Yagbonwura, Bii-Kunuto Jewu Soale; the Damongowura, Seidu Kelly Braimah Boresa (I); Samuel Abu Jinapor, MP for Damongo; John Abdulai Jinapor, MP for Yapei Kusawgu and Minister for Energy and Green Transition; H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Vice President and flagbearer of the NPP; and H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana.
He also commended the management and staff of the West Gonja Hospital and members of the NPP fraternity for their care and support.
Hon. Jibril’s remarks have reignited discussions on the essence of leadership in Ghana’s political space, particularly the need for leaders to prioritize mentorship, inclusion, and long-term impact over short-term political gains.
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