Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recently praised the first graduating class of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) during a ceremony held in Ikeja. The event celebrated the achievements of 29 pioneer graduates who have completed a year-long program designed to develop leadership skills among young people.
At the graduation ceremony, Sanwo-Olu commended the graduates for their dedication and exemplary performance throughout the program. He emphasized the importance of leadership in addressing the challenges faced by society, urging the graduates to be role models in their respective fields, whether in public service or the private sector.
“This day marks a significant milestone not only for these remarkable individuals but also for the future of leadership in Lagos State and Nigeria,” Sanwo-Olu stated. He highlighted the legacy of the late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, the first civilian governor of Lagos State, whose vision inspired the establishment of the academy.
The LJLA aims to equip young leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of governance and public service. Over the past year, the graduates participated in workshops, problem-solving sessions, and received mentorship from industry experts and global leaders. Sanwo-Olu noted that the academy was created to nurture future leaders who can drive positive change in their communities.
“Leadership is not just about holding positions of authority; it’s about uplifting others and steering society toward a more just and prosperous future,” he said. The governor expressed pride in the graduates’ transformation, stating that they had embraced the academy’s rigorous curriculum, which combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
The academy received an overwhelming response, with 17,000 applications for the program. Ultimately, 30 fellows were selected, comprising 15 men and 15 women. Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the efforts of the academy’s management, led by Executive Secretary Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, for their commitment to fostering leadership development.
During the program, the fellows initiated several community projects, including the launch of the Eko Laws Simplifier App, designed to educate Lagos residents about local laws and improve accessibility. Additionally, they organized a medical outreach that benefited 500 residents of Ikosi-Ketu.
The Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Oba Gbolahan Lawal, urged the governor to provide the graduates with opportunities to further develop their leadership skills in real-world settings. Similarly, Abubakar Suleiman, CEO of Sterling Bank, encouraged the graduates to build on the foundation laid during their training.
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to nurturing future leaders, stating that the academy would continue to be a vital platform for young individuals to unlock their potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
As the ceremony concluded, the governor expressed optimism about the impact these graduates would have on Lagos and beyond, reinforcing the belief that they are the torchbearers of a new era of leadership. The event not only celebrated the achievements of the graduates but also highlighted the ongoing efforts to cultivate a new generation of leaders in Nigeria.
