LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AS THE KEY ANCHOR FOR POST-COVID-19 PANDEMIC, STATE RESILIENCE AND SUSTENANCE IN AFRICA: A STUDY OF NIGERIAN HEALTH SYSTEM EXPERIENCE AND SUPPORT FOR SDG 3

Abstract

Objective: The study aimed to interrogate how leadership and state capacities were developed to manage the COVID-19 pandemic and sustain state resilience for future emergencies. Theoretical Framework: The 1977 Institutional Theory of Meyer and Rowan is chosen for the underpinnings of this study. Methodology: The study adopted secondary sources of data collection and analysis. The secondary sources include Journals, books, newspapers, and the Nigeria Centre for Disease and Control. The thematic analysis technique was adopted to elicit concepts, coded into categories. The categories were later pattern-matched to generate themes adopted to answer the research questions. Results: The study showed that leadership and state capacities for resilience can be developed, managed, and sustained for future crises or emergencies. Discussion: Leadership development in the post covid era in states and different governments will undoubtedly contribute to goal 3 (SDG 3) of the 20230 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Agenda. This goal 3 emphasised good health and wellbeing. Research Implications: Policymakers will gain more information on policymaking during post-covid in society. Originality/Values: Africa and generally developing countries were worst hit during Covid-19 and should embrace all efforts toward leadership development of post Covid-19.