By; Ogunleye Kolapo Olayemi
“Leadership is not reserved for the highest office; it begins wherever someone chooses to take responsibility.” This idea resonates deeply within the walls of the Department of Political Science, where student leaders are increasingly taking on active roles to shape not just academic experience but the overall welfare of their peers. In this feature, we had a chat with Adeoti Mubarak Adebare, the current president of the department of political science to reflect on the semester so far.
Taking up the reins of leadership often comes with expectations. When asked about his experience leading the department, Adebare gives thanks to God and to everyone who has been supportive towards his administration. He also reiterated his administration has been student centric “Our administration has been based on Student-centric agenda and this has really helped alots. I mean understanding the problems and proferring solutions to it . In short, administration has gone beyond constitutional functions but at the same time latent advocacy functions” he said.
While leadership comes with its own pressure, academics remain the ever-present challenge for every student leader. When asked about the academic atmosphere of the department this semester, Adeoti didn’t mince words. “Academic atmosphere in the whole of UI is always hard and strenuous,” he said, describing it as a system known for its “rigorous workloads, assignments, deadlines, and many other things.” For him, the semester has been nothing short of demanding, a sentiment that resonates with many students juggling classes and responsibilities.
Despite the challenges, the administration has taken steps to cushion its harsh edges. When asked about the specific academic challenges faced by students in the department, Adeoti highlighted a range of efforts his team has made to ease the burden. From facilitating the registration process and mentorship support for 100-level students to updating the department’s e-library even before resumption, his administration has focused on practical interventions. “We also appealed to the department management to ease the file updating process across all levels,” he noted. Additionally, efforts were made to streamline course access, especially with the Faculty course FSS 204 and backend issues with Philosophy portal registration. This is to ensuring students don’t miss important deadlines. Through it all, his administration appears committed to not just observing problems, but responding to them.
Behind every student-led initiative lies a crucial support system, and for Adeoti, the department’s management has played that role commendably. Speaking on the relationship his administration shares with department authorities, he pointed to the “strategic relationships we have built with them over time.” According to him, the management has not only been supportive but also responsive, often showing “listening ears to our yearnings.” This synergy between student leadership and departmental authority appears to be one of the driving forces behind the smooth execution of several academic interventions this semester. No leadership journey is complete without set goals, and for Adeoti, some of those goals have not only been met, they’ve been exceeded. “We have achieved beyond our expectations,” he remarked with quiet pride, noting that several initiatives have come to life since the semester began. One standout example is the NAPSS Fresher Essay Writing Competition, a platform aimed at encouraging intellectual engagement among new students.
Other notable accomplishments include the establishment of the NAPSS Global Resource Centre and the NAPSS Executive E-Secretariat, digital platforms designed to improve access to academic materials and administrative communication within the association. And according to him, the list is “still counting.” Leadership, no matter how visionary, thrives on the strength of a team. For Adeoti, the success of his administration is closely tied to the cooperation and dedication of his executive council. “Everyone is playing their roles. ‘Synergy Agenda’ is the motto,” he affirmed, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that defines their operations. Yet, he acknowledges the inevitable weight that rests on the president’s shoulders. Drawing from political imagery, he likened his role to that of a sailor: “The president must play the role of a navigator ready to move his people from one abode to another.” In his words, the journey has been smoother thanks to the unity and commitment of those around him. “It’s good working with them,” he added.
No administration runs without facing moments of criticism, and Adeoti’s tenure has seen its share. One such instance was the backlash following the delayed release of the mentorship program list, a situation that drew public attention through a scathing editorial. When asked about the incident, Adeoti kept his response brief but composed. “I don’t have anything to say about it. What has happened has happened. It’s now a thing of the past.” he added.One of the clearest signs of a thriving department is active student participation. And according to Adeoti, this semester has seen notable improvement in that regard. “The turnout has increased a lot,” he said, citing several events as proof. From the energy of the Seals Cup to the commitment shown during project writing sessions and the creativity on display at Steeze on Short, students have shown a renewed enthusiasm for departmental activities.
Beyond the public responsibilities and structured programs lies the personal weight of leadership. When asked about the most difficult part of his role this semester, Adeoti was candid in his response. “Administration is always difficult and not easy,” he admitted. Yet, rather than dwell on the challenges, he was quick to acknowledge a higher source of strength. “But God in His magnanimity has been marvellous to me. Alhamdulillah!” As the semester draws to a close, Adeoti’s final message to students is one of unity, responsibility, and shared ownership. He urged students to “hold the flag high,” and to take a more active interest in the growth and dignity of the department. According to him, the future of NAPSS depends not just on elected leaders, but on the collective efforts of every student. “NAPSS belongs to everyone. The president and all other excos are just a major driver,” he emphasized. In his words, leadership isn’t about position, it’s about participation, and building a department that serves the good of all.
