Leadership and Followership SS1 Citizenship & Heritage Studies Lesson Note

Today we are talking about a relationship that exists everywhere—in your home, in this classroom, on the football pitch, and in our country. This is the relationship between Leaders and Followers.

Many people want to be leaders because they think it’s all about giving orders and being the “boss.” But a leader is nothing without good followers, and followers can’t get anywhere without a good leader. They are like a bicycle: the front wheel (leader) gives direction, but the back wheel (follower) provides the power to move.

What Makes a Good Leader?

A leader is someone who guides, directs, and influences others to achieve a goal. It is not just a title; it is a character. Here are the qualities of a true leader:

• Integrity (Honesty): A good leader does what they say they will do. If you can’t trust a leader, you shouldn’t follow them.
• Vision: A leader sees the “big picture.” They know where the group is going and how to get there.
• Empathy: A great leader cares about the people they are leading. They don’t just see “workers”; they see human beings with feelings and needs.
• Responsibility: When things go wrong, a good leader doesn’t blame others. They take responsibility and look for a solution.
• Communication: They listen as much as they speak. They make sure everyone understands the plan.

The Duties of a Good Follower

Followership is not about being “weak” or “lazy.” In fact, being a good follower is a skill you need before you can ever become a leader.

• Support: A follower helps the leader to succeed. If the leader has a good plan, the follower works hard to make it happen.
• Constructive Criticism: A good follower isn’t a “Yes Man.” If the leader is making a mistake, a good follower speaks up politely to help correct it.
• Obedience: This means following the rules and the direction agreed upon by the group.
• Dedication: Doing your part of the job properly without being watched every second.
• Loyalty: Staying committed to the goals of the group, even when things get difficult.

Examples from Nigerian History

Nigeria has been blessed with men and women who showed great leadership at different times. Let’s look at a few:

• Herbert Macaulay: Known as the “Father of Nigerian Nationalism.” He led the fight against colonial rule when it was very dangerous to do so. He had the vision of a free Nigeria long before it happened.
• Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa: Our first Prime Minister. He was known for his humility and his “Golden Voice.” He tried to lead a very diverse country with peace and calmness.
• Margaret Ekpo: A powerful pioneer who led women to participate in politics in the East. She showed that leadership isn’t just for men; it’s for anyone with courage.
• Nnamdi Azikiwe & Obafemi Awolowo: These leaders were great thinkers. They used their education to build schools, newspapers, and political parties to lead their people toward independence and development.

The Relationship Between the Two

A leader and a follower are like a Contract.

• The leader promises to provide Direction, Protection, and Fairness.
• The follower promises to provide Labor, Loyalty, and Feedback.

When this contract is broken (for example, if a leader becomes a tyrant or a follower becomes a saboteur), the whole “bicycle” crashes. This is why we must always hold our leaders accountable and check our own behavior as followers.

Why Leadership Fails in Society

Sometimes, we see leaders who don’t act like the ones we described. This happens because of:

1. Greed: Putting personal pocket before the people’s needs.
2. Tribalism: Favoring only people from your own village or ethnic group.
3. Lack of Vision: Not having a plan for the future.
4. Bad Followership: When followers accept bribes or refuse to speak the truth to power, they allow bad leadership to grow.

Class Activity:

1. Self-Check: If you were the Class Captain and everyone was making noise, would you shout at them (Boss) or find out why they are bored and suggest a solution (Leader)?
2. Discussion: Mention one person in your community that you consider a good leader. What quality from Section 1 do they have?

Debate: “Is it harder to be a good leader or a good follower?”