…Insights from Olaopa, Sobande, Onuoha, and Others
By Clifford Ndujihe
Several influential Nigerian intellectuals have recently commended the significance of Leading in a Storm, a compelling guide on effective leadership during crises authored by Dr. Dakuku Peterside, a respected Vanguard Newspapers columnist.
In their early evaluations, Prof. Tunji Olaopa, Dr. Toye Sobande, Dr. Ademola Adebise, and Dr. Michael Onuoha emphasized the book’s unique combination of practical leadership techniques and thoughtful reflection. This blend equips leaders, policymakers, and community organizers with the ability to maintain composure and clarity when facing intense pressure.
They collectively noted the book’s lucid presentation and pragmatic frameworks designed to help leaders successfully navigate complex challenges in both governmental and corporate environments.
Prof. Olaopa, who chairs the Federal Civil Service Commission in Abuja and is the author of works such as Transforming the African Public Service and Managing Complex Reforms, remarked: “Leadership is both situational and universal, especially in today’s volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world marked by multiple crises. Leading in a Storm stands out as a crucial resource for cultivating the crisis leadership urgently needed worldwide. It is essential reading not only for current leaders but also for scholars and students.”
Dr. Toye Sobande, a specialist in strategic leadership and author of The Leadership Myth: Why Leadership Principles Do Not Work in Sub-Saharan Africa, shared: “In Leading in a Storm, Dr. Peterside delivers vital strategies that empower leaders to steer through disorder and lead decisively under pressure. Using diverse African case studies, he underscores the critical roles of contextual awareness, calm demeanor, and effective communication. This book serves as a thorough manual for anyone responsible for leadership amid upheaval. It offers actionable insights on crisis management, rapid decision-making, and guiding teams toward success. Whether you are an experienced leader or new to the role, Peterside’s methodology provides essential tools to lead with resilience and insight when it counts most.”
Dr. Ademola Adebise, former Managing Director and CEO of WEMA Bank and an accomplished author, described the book as “a clear, practical guide that empowers leaders to confront uncertainty and disruption with adaptability and strength.” He lauded its emphasis on making sound decisions and engaging stakeholders effectively, stating, “It teaches leaders how to filter out distractions, accelerate critical choices, and maintain team cohesion when the pressure is at its peak.”
Chief Dr. Michael Onuoha, Chairman and CEO of Ailes Group and a recognized thought leader, praised Leading in a Storm as “an indispensable resource for leaders facing multifaceted challenges. This book provides profound strategies for steering organizations through turbulent times, making it highly relevant for executives and policymakers across various industries.”
He further highlighted the author’s approach to crisis sensemaking, noting: “The frameworks for environmental scanning, rapid feedback cycles, and post-crisis recovery are invaluable tools for any leader dedicated to sustainable success.”
Reflecting on these endorsements, Dr. Peterside expressed: “The growing recognition from esteemed leaders confirms what readers are experiencing firsthand: practical leadership guidance is most crucial when stakes are highest.”
“I deeply appreciate these distinguished voices for their thoughtful engagement and shared commitment to fostering resilient institutions.”