Intercultural Competence and Youth Leadership Development in Lagos State

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Abstract

Lagos State is home and habitat to people across cultural backgrounds and nationalities in the world. Several factors such as location, business opportunities, commerce and industries are responsible for accommodation of different cultural groups and individuals within and outside Nigeria. The impact of cultural diversity is evident in so many areas in the state. For instance, non-Lagosians are also actively involved in governance and administration in Lagos State. People from other cultural backgrounds are recognised, they can vie for political offices and be voted for. Thus, leadership in Lagos State requires intercultural competence for efficient performance and effective service delivery. As a result, this study examined Lagos State youth's level of exposure and awareness about intercultural competence through a structured questionnaire. The researchers examined the conceptual understanding of intercultural competence developed by some scholars, and equally adopted the Process Model of Intercultural Competence as a theoretical framework for the study. Among several recommendations of this study is that the Lagos State government and youth-focused organisations should review their leadership development schemes, include intercultural competence and explore intercultural leadership approach in their leadership development initiatives.