The Dynamic Leadership Role of Nehemiah in Ancient Israel and its Implication for Political Leaders in Nigeria

Abstract

One of the greatest challenges facing Nigeria is political leadership. Although, it is a truism that, corruption, fraud, lawlessness, and injustice, have eaten deep into the fabric of many leaders, be it civic or religious, it is however, a known fact that poor political leadership have been the major causes of all evils bedeviling Nigeria as a nation. Many political leaders have impoverished the nation to the point that majority of Nigerians live in abject penury. This paper examines the dynamic leadership roles of Nehemiah in ancient Israel and its implication for the Nigerian Political leaders. To dig deep into this research, historical and descriptive methods are used. The findings indicated that Nehemiah was a political leader who served the Persian Empire and Israel faithfully. Although, he was in a comfortable position in a foreign land, he had great concern for his people who were in deplorable condition. He therefore, took appropriate steps to salvage his people. He was patriotic and accountable. He provided security for the nation by ensuring that wall was built round the city of Jerusalem and more importantly, resolute in making the people have the concept of new citizenship and uphold the Law of Yahweh. While, it is recommended that the dynamic leadership roles of Nehemiah should be embraced by Nigeria Political Leaders in the path of developing the nation, the paper concluded that all efforts to unite as one nation in respect of ethnic, language and religious background must be paramount in the heart of all citizens.

Keywords: Nigeria, political leaders, Nehemiah, leadership roles, patriotism