◾Emphasizes participative management for enhanced school performance
The All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) convened its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Enugu State from August 5th to August 7th, 2025, bringing together educational leaders from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The three-day event was hosted at Anglican Girls’ Grammar Secondary School, Awkunanaw.
Themed “Rejigging School Management: Application of Participative Management Approach by Principals for Maximum Staff Performance,” the meeting focused on ways to enhance leadership in secondary schools through democratic delegation, shared responsibilities, and motivational techniques. Participants examined the Theory X and Theory Y frameworks, and how they can inform a more effective and inclusive school administration model.
Delivering his opening remarks, ANCOPSS National President, Muhammad Ibn-Musa, highlighted the need for school leaders to rethink traditional administrative approaches and embrace participative management to better align with the demands of modern education. He emphasized that the success of secondary education depends greatly on a principal’s ability to foster teamwork and delegate responsibilities effectively.
Chief Linus Chidiume, Acting ANCOPSS President, Enugu State Chapter, noted that the NEC meeting offered principals a vital platform to share experiences and adopt new strategies for driving excellence in school management. He also praised the commitment of Enugu State ANCOPSS members to the successful hosting of the event.
On his part, Theophilus Nweke, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Enugu State, stressed the long-standing synergy between the NUT and ANCOPSS, stating that the collaboration is essential in strengthening the education sector and advocating for improved staff welfare and professional development.
Among the key observations in the meeting’s communique were:
A tendency among some principals to avoid delegating responsibilities to vice-principals and staff due to a lack of confidence in their competence.
A noticeable decline in principals’ grasp of their core responsibilities—particularly in providing instructional leadership and creating an environment for optimal staff performance.
Limited understanding of human behavior among some school leaders, which affects supervision and team dynamics.
The poor implementation of educational policies by some principals and stakeholders.
A lack of incentives and support—both from the government and within ANCOPSS—for participation in training and capacity-building programs.
The existence of an authoritarian mindset among some principals, which undermines collaborative school administration.
In response, the communiqué made the following recommendations:
Principals should consistently delegate responsibilities to their vice-principals, teachers, and subordinates.
School leaders must deepen their understanding of their professional duties and embrace continuous learning.
A solid grasp of human behavior and motivational dynamics is essential for effective supervision.
ANCOPSS policy formulations should include practical mechanisms to ensure compliance and impact.
Host states should lead by example by offering incentives to encourage principal participation in ANCOPSS activities.
A democratic and inclusive leadership style should be prioritized in school management.
The congress expressed gratitude to Enugu State Governor, Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his support and enabling environment. Special acknowledgements were also extended to Prof. L. O. Nwabuko for his insightful presentation on Theory X and Y, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hillary E. Mgbodile, Mrs. Onuorah Rosemary of the Enugu State Post Primary Schools Management Board, as well as NECO, NUT, and other stakeholders for their solidarity.
The congress concluded with commendations to Linus Chidiume, Enugu State ANCOPSS acting President, his executive team, and the entire Enugu ANCOPSS chapter for hosting a successful and impactful meeting.
