First cohort of Lateef Jakande Academy graduates

By Adeola Ogunrinde

The first fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) graduated from the leadership program on Wednesday. The fellowship is an initiative of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to train and raise a new generation of leaders who would use practical skills and leadership to solve identified challenges across various areas of need.

The pioneer cohort had 29 fellows who completed the academy. They were equipped with governance knowledge and empowered to take on new responsibilities that would impact their careers and communities.

Governor Sanwo-Olu presented certificates of completion to the fellows at a ceremony in Ikeja, attended by members of the State’s Executive Council, government functionaries, and executives in the private sector. The graduation followed a final mentoring session and a dinner with the Governor at the State House in Marina on Tuesday evening.

The fellows had direct mentoring from Sanwo-Olu, who appointed them as Special Assistants in various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to identify gaps in their areas of responsibility.

Sanwo-Olu described the graduation ceremony as “a significant milestone” in leadership development in Lagos and the country, emphasizing that this achievement testified to the enduring legacy of the late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, the first civilian Governor of Lagos, in whose honor and memory the academy was established.

The Governor said the fellowship was conceived to nurture the next generation of leaders equipped to navigate the complexities of the public sector and establish ethical foundations necessary to drive positive change.

He said: “Over the past year, I have closely followed the journey of these fellows, and I must say their transformation has been nothing short of extraordinary. They have embraced the rigorous and diverse curriculum of the Academy, which seamlessly blends theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

“Through their engagement in thought-provoking workshops, innovative problem-solving sessions, and mentorship from global leaders and industry experts, these young men and women have not just learned—they have thrived, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to excellence, creativity, and integrity.”

Sanwo-Olu told the fellows that their graduation from the academy marked the beginning of a lifelong leadership journey, urging them to show courage and determination as they face new challenges.

The Governor expressed his excitement about the inaugural graduation, pointing out that the objectives of the fellowship were being realized, given the impacts made by the inaugural fellows. He said: “The beginning of this program was very rough, and we encountered challenges that made me question if we made the right decision. I am grateful that the fellowship has been on the right track and has achieved beyond what we imagined. The project has been driven by sincerity of purpose, and I appreciate the trust the fellows placed in me.

“Fellows, as you step out into the world, you carry with you not only the knowledge and skills you have acquired but also the hopes and aspirations of countless others who believe in your potential. You are the torchbearers of a new era of leadership, one that will define the future of Lagos, Nigeria, Africa, and the world.”

LJLA Executive Secretary, Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, thanked the Governor for his commitment and support for the program, which, she said, has been driving social change and community service in Lagos and beyond.

She said the Leadership Academy had gone beyond being a fellowship program, noting that the platform had become a beacon of hope and opportunity for future generations of leaders, dedicated to shaping a future where leadership would be synonymous with service, compassion, and progress.

Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, told the fellows that the fellowship had equipped them with valuable knowledge and experience to explore new opportunities. He said: “You cannot lead people to where you have been; as leaders, you can only lead effectively when you lead people to where you have not been. From now on, you will be identified by your impact on society. This is a challenge you must never fail.”

In his remarks, the Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Oba Omogbolahan Lawal, said Lagos reached an important milestone on the day the initiative was launched, describing the fellowship as “a game changer” in raising future leaders and policymakers.

The monarch urged the State Government to engage the fellows, saying: “The knowledge and experience the fellows have gathered must not be allowed to waste.”

Speaking on behalf of the fellows, Bashirat Shodipo noted that the journey started with uncertainty but added that their collective passion and understanding of their differences enhanced their teamwork capability to overcome the challenges. The fellows thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for the opportunity and investment in their future, saying posterity would be kind to him for instituting the fellowship.