Nigeria like many Countries on the African continent has been plagued with many problems that continue to add unprecedented hardship on the lives of its citizens. While many would attribute these problems started from the colonial era, many would not. However, a few would attribute the problems Nigeria is currently facing is as a result of the fact that the country lack good leaders.

A very good look at the level of people who have ruled the country right from the time of independence to this present day will convince one that indeed the country does lack good leaders.

I've taken time to highlight a few qualities Nigerians should look out for when electing leaders.

ACCOUNTABILITY: This quality is what a leader most possess. A leader should not shy away from his or her responsibilities and circumstances that arises from bad decisions whether it was made by him or his subordinate. He should be ready to face the effects of actions made by him be it positive or negative.

CREDIBILITY: This quality is one Nigerians most look out for in leaders, the past activities of that leader shows whether he or she is fit to occupy the position he or she is vying for, also the records of the person should be thoroughly checked to know how he or she fared when they occupied positions at whatever stage in their career.

INTEGRITY: The integrity of a good leader goes along way to show the kind of person he or she really is, just like credibility, his or her actions should be looked into for one to know just how strong his or her integrity is. The reputation of the individual plays a leading role, also, as this will enable people to know his or her abilities and whether he or she has the charisma to lead.

SELFLESSNESS: This is the very strong quality a leader most possess. While many leaders may possess some of the qualities mentioned above, many leaders have often showed that they lack this very strong quality. A leader most know that whatever positions he or she occupy is not for the entire benefit of him and his family but for the benefit of the people he represents. He or she most know that it is not about him or her but about the people. He or she should endeavor to do everything humanly possible to ensure that a smile is put on the faces of the people he or she represents. He or she should realize that they are mainly tools, weapons fashioned for the actualization of desired goals and objectives.

GENUINE FEAR OF GOD: There is a saying "the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom". I guess with this it is okay to say many leaders don't really fear God that's why they lack the wisdom to lead. If a leader truly fears God, they will really endeavor to do what they are suppose to do because they know that they are answerable to God.

If a leader possess all the qualities mentioned above one will discover that, that leader will be able to carry out his or her duties effectively and efficiently regardless of the obstacles they face.

These qualities are qualities Nigerians should watch out for when electing leaders that will pilot the affairs of the Nation in whatever capacity, they should not elect leaders based on tribal, religious, ethnic grounds as these can prove to be disastrous.