Influence of Leadership Characteristics on Role Performance of Local Leaders in Rural Community Development in Southwestern Nigeria

This study investigated the influence of leadership characteristics on role performance of local leaders in Rural Community Development (RCD) in Southwestern Nigeria. It described the leadership characteristics of local leaders, determined role performance of local leaders in RCD and determined the influence of leadership characteristics on role performance. Multistage sampling procedure was used to select 352 local leaders drawn across the study area. Quantitative data were collected through structured interview schedule while in-depth interview guide was used to elicit qualitative information. Data were analysed using frequency counts, percentages, means and multiple linear regression analysis. Results indicated that majority (81.4%) of the respondents had empathy, emotional stability (89.7%) and delegated leadership roles to their members (82.7%). Roles performed by local leaders were protecting members’ welfare (mean = 2.42) and community mobilization (mean = 2.28). Findings revealed that empathy (β=0.355), emotional stability (β = 0.183), ability to delegate leadership roles (β=0.143), good communication skills (β = 0.165) and consistency in decision making (β = 0.567) significantly contributed to role performance of local leaders in RCD. The study concluded that emotional stability, good communication skills and consistency in decision making were leadership characteristics that determined local leaders’ role performance. Significant leadership characteristics should be enhanced to ensure effective performance of local leaders in RCD.