Nigerians have been urged to adopt continuous reading and learning as essential tools for thriving in today’s knowledge-driven digital economy. The call was made during the 5th Public Lecture of the African School of Economics in Abuja.
Speaking at the event themed “Innovation and Leadership in the Digital Age: Perspectives from Ireland,” Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji stressed that modern success depends on intellectual growth and innovative leadership.
In his address titled “Readers and Leaders, Learners are Earners,” Prof. Adedimeji described the digital age as being defined by networks, the Internet of Things, digitisation, misinformation challenges, globalisation and knowledge-based production.
He explained that the knowledge economy creates value through intellectual capital rather than physical labour. “Readers are leaders and learners are earners. If you want to lead, read; and if you want to earn much, learn more,” he said, adding that innovation and leadership are interdependent.
A leadership consultant and former senior lecturer at the Atlantic Technological University in Ireland, Paddy Harte, noted that innovation does not always mean creating something entirely new but improving existing ideas for wider impact. He said effective leadership now emphasises collaboration and creating space for experimentation.
Harte urged openness to diverse perspectives, stating that innovation flourishes when leaders provide the right environment for ideas to grow. “Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact; everything we see is a perspective,” he said.
Irish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Ryan, who was the special guest of honour, encouraged young Nigerians to embrace advice and meaningful interaction. He quoted an Irish proverb: “Your friend’s eye is a good mirror,” highlighting the value of constructive feedback.
Ryan said his experience in Nigeria had reinforced the importance of human connection as a national strength, stressing that progress often depends on people’s ability to engage and collaborate.
The event featured the presentation of award plaques to Ambassador Ryan and Mr. Harte by the Vice-Chancellor, supported by the university registrar, alongside goodwill messages from participant
