Lagos launches leadership academy for youths  

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has announced the launch of Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, a leadership and mentorship programme of the State Government envisioned to develop tomorrow’s leaders for public service and governance in Africa by equipping them with the requisite skills as well as instilling the ethics and values of purposeful leadership through direct mentoring and on-the-job training.

Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that the one-year, non-partisan and meritocratic fellowship will offer first-hand experience in the process of governance at the State Government level and offer bright young Nigerians the chance to support Nigeria’s recovery through inclusive, sustainable and development solutions.

He said beneficiaries will form a shadow cabinet, closely working with Executive Cabinet members and supporting the development and execution of policies and programmes with real-life impact, noting that they will also participate in discussions with renowned leaders from the public and private sectors, just as they partake in domestic and international policy trips.

His words: “Effective leadership significantly contributes to the development of the society, organisations, individuals and groups in the public and private sector.

To continue to build our nation, we need to invest in developing leadership skills, especially amongst young people. With nearly 50% of the Nigerian population being talented youth, the launch of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy is geared towards developing future leaders by equipping them with the pre-requisite skills that would assist them in transitioning into the public sector”.  “Leadership is crucial at all levels within the society.

Our goal is to provide a platform for invaluable exposure and purposeful leadership preparation that will positively impact our youth to cultivate a shared vision that will lead to active citizenship and nation-building. At Lagos State, we are building leaders today for a greater tomorrow”, the Governor added.

Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the Fellowship aims to identify the brightest young professionals with a profound sense of purpose at various stages of their career, adding that they must also be innovative, dynamic, driven, and possess a high degree of intellectual curiosity.

Interested applicants, who must be Nigerian under the age of 35 years, with a minimum of three years of work experience, having completed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) or hold an exemption certificate, are invited to apply online on www.ljla.academy before registration closes on the 2nd of June 2022.