The Convener of #FixPolitics Initiative and founder of the School of Politics, Policy and Governance, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, has urged SPPG graduands to adopt an analytical mindset.

Speaking on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, during the second convocation of SPPG, Ezekwesili said, “In God we trust, but everyone must bring their data. You should be analytical in all circumstances.”,

On the school’s foundation, she stated, “Research shows that the missing characteristics of good governance are character, competence and capacity. Character and integrity are insufficient unless they are consistent.”

The former minister of education in Nigeria noted the timeliness of the second convocation of SPPG. The event was described as a remarkable month. 

She emphasised the importance of preparedness for the task ahead, while also encouraging the graduands to be worthy of their calling. 

“Miriam Williamson said our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate; it is our light, not darkness, that frightens us,” she added. 

As part of the #FixPolitics Initiative’s values, the SPPG aims to transform African politics. The institute’s goal is to build a massive base of a new value-based, disruptive-thinking political class equipped with the knowledge and skills to effectively lead.

“Accountability, respect and tolerance, stewardship and responsibility, social justice and inclusiveness, ethical leadership, a moral compass founded on integrity and honesty, and adherence to the rule of law are also guiding principles, “she added. 

 SPPG, which is based on the #FixPolitics mission, is critical to the group’s goals of elevating the ‘Office of the Citizen’ to its proper position in society and creating a political class of servant-leaders.

The school’s goal is to attract, nurture and produce a new generation of political leaders, who will listen to and serve a new class of informed citizens. It also aspires to produce 21st century politicians known for their values-driven personalities.

Leading figures, including Karen Losse, Alero Ayida-Otobo, Dr Yetunde Anibaba, Dr Fola Adeola, Chairman of the FATE Foundation, Senator Hilary Clinton of the United States, and many others spoke to the graduands, both in person and virtually.  

Adeola said, “African leaders need to think deep to harness the vast resources available to develop Africa. Africa has more of a future, as it has history. But the future cannot be achieved if we remain in the static pace of the past.

“The African society must find a new future by learning from the past, where digging into the ground is the only way to survive.”

According to the Dean of SPPG, Yetunde Anibaba, the students have undergone some sort of positive genetic mutation and physiological upgrade to prepare them for the world into which they are about to be released.

Ayida-Otobo praised the graduands, adding, “Class of 2022 – the Class of the Unconventionals – you are poised for greatness; set for impact. You have strengthened your capacity by enduring 10 months of incredibly hard work.”

Losse spoke about the significance of working for the citizens, while urging the students to exhibit good character and showcase their talents. 

“It is your job to go out there and make governance work for all citizens,” she encouraged. 

Hilary Clinton asserts that the task is to apply the lessons learned from SPPG to actual change for all Nigerians.

The class of 2022 was also urged to continue making a difference by the lead compere, Oseni Rufai. 

“I believe, very soon across every state of the federation, you can take this as a prophecy; we will see in the government house of every state of the federation the alumni of SPPG,” he said.