Authentic Leadership vs. Servant Leadership: A Comparative Analysis for the Nigerian Context

Abstract

This paper examines the similarities and differences between authentic and servant leadership, concentrating on their application in Nigeria in the context of ongoing challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the EndSARS protests. Through an in-depth examination of the two leadership styles, this study seeks to determine the optimal strategy for Nigeria to employ to rebuild trust, empower its citizens, and ensure a better future for all. This paper examines the characteristics of each leadership style, their long-term benefits, and the implications for Nigeria’s future using scholarly sources that have been peer-reviewed. In addition, the results of the Leadership Instrument Questionnaire are analyzed to provide unique insights into leadership styles.

Introduction

In an era of unprecedented uncertainty, dynamic, effective, and trustworthy leadership is paramount. This is particularly true in the Nigerian context, where the country is dealing with the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and societal unrest resulting from the EndSARS protests. As these crises manifest, a leadership style that can inspire trust, exemplify empathy, and facilitate positive change is indispensable. In light of this, this study aims to compare two prominent leadership styles – authentic leadership and servant leadership – to determine their applicability, relevance, and prospective efficacy in navigating Nigeria’s unique challenges. This study contends that a judicious combination of authentic and servant leadership principles, aligned with Nigeria’s sociocultural ethos and contemporary realities, could be a transformative force that propels the nation toward a more equitable, prosperous, and resilient future. This comparative study aims to elucidate leadership development pathways in Nigeria, thereby contributing to the discourse on effective leadership paradigms for nations in transition.

Authentic Leadership

Authentic leadership is supported by self-awareness, transparency, and unwavering adherence to fundamental values (Amara & Dail, 2017). Those who exemplify this leadership style demonstrate a genuine and compassionate concern for their followers, acting with integrity and ensuring transparency in their decision-making processes. These leaders are accountable to their followers, thereby fostering a culture of trust and transparency (Liu et al., 2018). In addition to fostering trust, the authentic leadership style also plays a significant role in fostering commitment among followers. It achieves this by aligning individual and organizational objectives and fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding.

Moreover, authentic leaders inspire their followers’ creativity. They cultivate an environment that values innovation and problem-solving, allowing adherents to feel comfortable expressing their ideas and thinking creatively. This openness to creativity can enhance problem-solving and decision-making within the organization, thereby contributing to its overall success and resilience (Semedo et al., 2018). Using these defining characteristics, authentic leadership provides a model based on ethical behavior, promotes positive organizational change, and improves follower satisfaction and performance. Authenticity, trust, and transparency are highly valued in today’s complex and swiftly changing business environment, which makes this leadership style particularly applicable.

Servant Leadership

As a leadership approach, servant leadership emphasizes the significance of leaders viewing themselves as servants first and placing the requirements of others above their own (Coetzer et al., 2017). In contrast to traditional hierarchical approaches, this form of leadership focuses on the development and well-being of individuals and the communities to which they adhere. The humility of servant leaders is exemplified by their willingness to step back and position their followers in the foreground. They motivate their adherents to realize their maximum potential by valuing their input and involving them in decision-making. This strategy emphasizes collaboration, trust, empathy, and moral authority use (Reilly & Spears, 2018).

In the workplace, servant leadership can cultivate an environment with high ethical standards, increased job satisfaction, and a strong commitment to the organization. By putting the needs of employees first, servant leaders can foster an environment that fosters personal growth, job satisfaction, and high levels of organizational commitment. This leadership style ultimately results in a more engaged and productive workforce, which can contribute to an organization’s overall success (Paesen et al., 2019). Servant leadership is transformative and can effect substantial positive change in organizations and society. It represents a transition from self-centered leadership to leadership centered on serving others.

Comparison of Authentic and Servant Leadership

Authentic leadership and servant leadership share a commitment to the well-being of followers and an emphasis on ethical behavior. However, their decision-making approach and power distribution dynamics differ significantly (Northouse, 2021). Authentic leaders are distinguished by their profound self-awareness and commitment to their core values. Their decision-making processes are transparent, and they exercise sincerity in their leadership. This self-authenticity inspires confidence and motivates followers to align their values with those of the leader and the organization, nurturing a sense of shared purpose and unity.

Conversely, servant leadership alters the traditional power structure by positioning the leader in a position of service to the followers. These leaders place their followers’ needs, development, and well-being above their own, nurturing an environment of empathy and cooperation. Servant leaders aim to elevate and empower their followers, fostering a community that flourishes on mutual respect and shared responsibilities. While both leadership styles offer valuable insights and potential benefits, their effectiveness in Nigeria requires a nuanced understanding of their unique challenges and cultural nuances. The appropriateness of each style will depend on its alignment with societal values, responsiveness to current socio-political challenges, and ability to cultivate trust, unity, and resilience within the nation. The ultimate objective is to implement a leadership style that resonates with the people, inspires positive change, and contributes to Nigeria’s collective progress and prosperity.

Leadership in Nigeria

Historically, leadership in Nigeria has been beset by numerous obstacles, notably corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and extreme economic inequality. These issues have hindered the nation’s progress and contributed to social unrest. Recent crises, such as the EndSARS protests and the COVID-19 pandemic, have further highlighted Nigeria’s imperative need for effective, ethical, and responsive leadership (Emuwa & Fields, 2017). The EndSARS demonstrations, sparked by widespread anger against police misconduct, revealed profound discontent with leadership and governance structures.

Simultaneously, the COVID-19 pandemic has strained Nigeria’s already fragile health and economic systems, highlighting the urgent need for strong, forward-thinking leadership capable of navigating crises and implementing systemic change. In light of this context, examining the potential for authentic and servant-oriented leadership styles in Nigeria is pertinent and essential. Both leadership styles, characterized by integrity, empathy, and service principles, could catalyze Nigeria’s much-needed societal and institutional transformation. Their potential long-term benefits, including nurturing trust, enhancing accountability, and promoting inclusiveness and equality, could provide the foundation for a more resilient, equitable, and prosperous Nigeria.

Long-term Benefits of Each Leadership Style for Nigeria

Numerous long-term advantages result from employing authentic and servant-oriented leadership styles in Nigeria. Genuine leadership, exemplified by its fundamental principles of self-awareness, integrity, and transparency, can cultivate trust and commitment among Nigerian citizens. This is particularly crucial considering Nigeria’s history of governance issues and public mistrust. By demonstrating authenticity and openness, leaders can rehabilitate citizens’ trust, resulting in a more stable and cohesive society (Nair et al., 2021). Alternatively, servant leadership, emphasizing service to others and empowerment, can promote ethical behavior, unity, and inclusivity in Nigerian society. The prioritization of servant leaders’ needs and the development of their adherents can empower individuals, especially those marginalized. This leadership style can also contribute to social cohesion and stability by fostering a culture of mutual respect and support (Nair et al., 2021).

Importantly, both leadership styles have the potential to contribute to Nigeria’s development by confronting corruption, a ubiquitous obstacle to the country’s progress. Authentic and servant-oriented leaders can set a new standard for the government in Nigeria by embodying and promoting ethical behavior. In addition, these leadership styles can contribute to developing a more inclusive society by placing a premium on social justice and inclusion. By addressing these issues, genuine and servant-oriented leadership can play a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future.

Recommendations for Nigerian Leadership

Nigeria would benefit from a leadership approach that incorporates the principles of authentic and servant leadership as it navigates its unique challenges, such as social unrest and a public health crisis. Authentic leadership, emphasizing transparency, integrity, and adherence to fundamental values, can be instrumental in combating systemic problems such as corruption. By fostering confidence and transparency, genuine leadership can restore public faith in the nation’s institutions and establish a more accountable and responsive governance structure (Amara & Dail, 2017). On the other hand, servant leadership, which focuses primarily on serving others and addressing their needs, can effectively foster unity and advance social justice. By prioritizing the growth and well-being of their followers, servant leaders can empower marginalized communities, reduce societal inequality, and foster inclusive development (Coetzer et al., 2017).

In addition, servant leadership can contribute to a stronger, more cohesive national identity by promoting active participation and providing expression to the various segments of society. This, combined with the leaders’ ethical and genuine behavior, could significantly improve Nigeria’s capacity to manage its current challenges and foster inclusive, sustainable growth in the future. Nigeria should adopt a leadership model judiciously incorporating authentic and servant leadership characteristics.

Re-engineering the Future of Nigeria

Redesigning Nigeria’s future necessitates a concerted effort by its leaders to cultivate a transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance system. Implementing policies that enhance public participation and cultivate a culture of accountability is essential to this transformation. This strategy is essential for restoring public confidence and imparting a sense of ownership in the nation-building process among the populace. In addition, the need for social justice must be at the center of policy decisions, addressing long-standing inequities and promoting a more equitable society. In addition, Nigerian leaders must prioritize the empowerment of youth and the promotion of gender equality. Considering that more than 60 percent of Nigeria’s population is under 24 years old, investing in youth empowerment is not only a matter of social justice but also a choice of strategy for sustainable development.

Similarly, ensuring gender equality can unlock substantial socioeconomic potential, promoting growth and development. Lastly, leaders should prioritize facilitating economic development, especially by encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation. Nigeria can pave the way for a prosperous future by supporting initiatives encouraging entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and technological advancement.

Can Authentic and Servant Leadership Be Taught?

Authentic leadership and servant leadership can both be taught and learned. Leadership development programs frequently emphasize enhancing self-awareness, promoting ethical decision-making, and improving interpersonal skills, which are essential components of authentic leadership (Northouse, 2021). Likewise, servant leadership can be fostered through training that emphasizes empathy, active listening, and putting the needs of others first (Coetzer et al., 2017). However, it is essential to observe that these leadership styles involve abilities, attitudes, and mentalities. Therefore, an effective training program should strive to transform how leaders behave and how they perceive their leadership roles.

Leadership Instrument Questionnaire Analysis

After completing the Leadership Instrument Questionnaire, it became clear that my leadership style strongly aligns with the principles of genuine leadership. This congruence is evident in my high regard for transparency, integrity, and unwavering dedication to my core values. I firmly believe in maintaining an open and honest dialogue, informing my followers of significant decisions, and acting following my values. Concurrently, I discovered that aspects of servant leadership resonate with my leadership philosophy. As a leader, I recognize the importance of putting the requirements of others first and endeavor to uphold this value. I aim to foster a community where followers feel valued, supported, and inspired to realize their maximum potential. Consequently, while my leadership style is grounded in the authenticity of my actions and intentions, it also incorporates the essence of servant leadership, creating a balanced approach that seeks to cultivate both personal and organizational development.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this comparative analysis of authentic and servant leadership has illuminated potential avenues for leadership development in Nigeria, especially in light of its current societal challenges. The findings indicate that both leadership styles have distinct advantages that, if judiciously combined, could result in an effective leadership strategy. Authentic leadership, emphasizing integrity, transparency, and adherence to core values, can foster an environment of trust and respect. In contrast, servant leadership, emphasizing service to others, can foster unity, inclusivity, and a shared purpose. By applying these leadership principles, Nigeria can overcome its current challenges and progress toward a more equitable, prosperous, and resilient future. This study highlights the need for ongoing dialogue and investigation in the search for effective leadership models, as leadership remains a crucial factor in determining the global trajectory of nations and societies.

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