Several studies have shown that leadership plays a pivotal role for the growth and
development of a Nation either developed, underdeveloped or developing. This can only be seen through leadership strategy known as leadership innovation initiatives (LII). Against this premise, this paper examined leadership innovation through transparency and accountability for sustainable development in Nigeria. The theoretical framework for the paper is Transformational Leadership Theory by James MacGregor Burns in (1978). Within the context of framework, this paper depended on secondary sources of data obtained from textbooks, journals, internet and other published articles relating to the study. The paper found out that, an innovative leader is the one that has the capacity
to think and bring out issues that would put it on the trajectory of development such as, vision, transparency and accountability mechanisms. Furthermore, the paper reveals some of the hurdles faced by leaders that affects her sustainable development to include; absence of political ideology, lack of vision and institutional imbalances. The paper also reveals ways of enhancing leadership innovation through accountability and transparency by enhancing civic engagement, public participation and ethical standards of the public service. The paper concluded that leadership innovation enhances good governance, economic stability, social cohesion, and institutional integrity to Nigeria’s growth and development.