LJLA bridging gap between youth, governance in Nigeria — Sanwo-Olu
By Adeola Ogunrinde –
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) as a platform effectively bridging the gap between the aspirations of young people and governance.
The governor made the remark on Friday at the graduation and induction ceremony of the Academy in Ikeja, where 30 fellows of the 2024/2025 cohort concluded their one-year residential training, while another 30 were inducted for the 2025/2026 session.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the Academy has become a model for preparing youths to take on leadership responsibilities, urging the graduating fellows to serve with conviction and character. “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader,” he said.
He unveiled Torchbearers, a book authored by the graduating fellows, and stressed that leadership is shaped by vision, preparation, and character. According to him, the Academy affirms the Lagos State Government’s commitment to raising leaders who lead with intent and integrity.
Sanwo-Olu added that his administration will continue to strengthen the Academy so that it evolves into a global model for grooming transformational leaders capable of shaping society.
Executive Secretary of the Academy, Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, disclosed that 60 fellows have passed through the programme so far, with over 85 percent already serving in leadership roles across various sectors. She called for stronger collaboration between government and the private sector to create more opportunities for the fellows.
Chairperson of the Alumni Advisory Council, Adepeju Balogun, highlighted alumni achievements, including mentoring 200 youths, producing an alumni constitution in June 2025, and initiating sustainability projects aimed at long-term impact in Lagos State.
The event also featured goodwill messages from mentors and recognitions for outstanding contributions, with Seyi Ugo receiving the All-Rounder Award, while the Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Abisola Olusanya, was honoured as the Most Supportive Personality.
