In a moment that blended reflection, humility, and inspiration, celebrated educator and Global Teacher Prize finalist, Olasunkanmi Opeifa, officially launched his latest book, Lead Like a Player, during the just-concluded The Phenomenon 3.0 conference in Abuja.
The book was unveiled by none other than Hakeem Subair,the Founder of 1Million Teachers, whose work in transforming education across Africa has become a benchmark in teacher leadership and professional development.
But while the unveiling was grand, the story behind the book is even more compelling.
In a candid revelation shared during the event, Opeifa recounted how the idea for the book was sparked — not during a formal planning session or brainstorming retreat, but during a casual Scrabble game with Subair.
“I knew I was sitting with a master strategist,” Opeifa said. “But rather than trying to win the game, I made a decision: I’ll lose this game if I have to, but I’ll win insight.”
What followed was a profound observation of how leadership reveals itself in the smallest, quietest ways: in how one responds to moves, adapts to challenges, stays calm under pressure, and maintains self-leadership — even over a board game.
Lead Like a Player distills these lessons into a practical, relatable guide to leadership — far removed from abstract theories and anchored in real-life scenarios. The book challenges readers to redefine leadership, not by position or power, but by the quiet strength, strategy, and adaptability that true leaders demonstrate.
“It’s not just another leadership book,” Opeifa explained. “It’s for anyone who has ever led a team, taught a class, managed a conflict, or simply tried to lead themselves through chaos. It’s a call to lead with insight, grace, and strategic boldness.”
Already generating buzz among educators and leadership circles, the book is available for purchase on Selar via Buy the book ON SELAR NOW.
The launch of Lead Like a Player marks yet another milestone for Opeifa, who continues to inspire a new generation of teacher-leaders across Africa — one lesson, one story, and now, one book at a time.
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