The argument presented in this paper centres on exemplary leadership and sustainable development in Nigeria, examining the various factors that contribute to the nation's growth and development. The paper draws lessons from two distinct and divergent disciplines: the first is the Biblical Moses and his exemplary leadership style, and the second is the artistic and imaginative creation of a character by Femi Osofisan, one of Nigeria’s leading voices in the literary domain. The character Moremi is said to have played a vital role in the history of the Yoruba people in western Nigeria. These two characters and their exemplary characteristics are the concern of this paper. Being two divergent characters, given that one is Biblical and the latter is artistic, their selfless leadership qualities, and how they contributed to the advancement and emancipation of their respective subjects in their struggles, are a huge lesson for Nigeria’s sustainable development. Biblical Moses, for instance, was highly patient in his dealings with his people (the Israelites), who were disobedient and highly immoral. Despite their shortcomings and constant provocation, Moses
could endure and return to God in prayer to plead for the forgiveness and the fulfilment of God’s promise to them. Moremi, on the other hand, is said to be from the upper class of the society; as a queen, she selflessly renounced her affluence and good quality lifestyle to embark on a journey into the camp of the enemy to unravel her strength, magic and relate same to her people to liberate them from their oppressors the Igbos who were constantly molesting and killing her people, the Ifes. These two great characters and their contributions towards advancing the well-being of their people, amidst condemnations and trials, remained exemplary in their commitment to liberating their people. The paper concluded that exemplary leaders like Moremi and Moses have the potential to enhance sustainable development if replicated in the Nigerian society
