BENJAMIN OMOIKE
LAGOS, Nigeria – Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended the transformative efforts of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) as he celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2024/2025 and inducted the new 2025/2026 cohort.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday, August 29, 2025, presided over the graduation ceremony for thirty Fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA), marking the successful completion of the Class of 2024/2025’s year-long leadership development programme. The ceremony also saw the induction of the new cohort for the 2025/2026 academic year, underscoring the academy’s growing role in shaping future leaders for both Lagos and Nigeria.
In his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu lauded the graduating Fellows for their dedication and resilience throughout the programme. He emphasised that the academy stands as a pillar in fostering a culture of leadership grounded in vision, preparation, and integrity, noting that the Fellows’ commitment to the values of service and excellence was a testament to the programme’s success.
“We are witnessing the graduation of Fellows who have undergone transformative training in leadership. The academy represents a critical shift in our collective approach to leadership, one that prioritizes character, competence, and service above all else,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said.
The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to positioning the LJLA as a globally recognised institution dedicated to grooming leaders capable of inspiring positive change within the state and beyond.
A Vision for the Future
Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, Executive Secretary of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, shared that sixty Fellows have now graduated from the academy, with over 85 percent of them currently holding leadership roles across various sectors. She highlighted the critical importance of continued collaboration between the public and private sectors to expand opportunities for leadership development in Nigeria.
“The Academy has become a breeding ground for transformative leaders, and we are proud to see our Fellows contributing to nation-building in their respective fields,” Agbaje-Okunade remarked.
She also extended her gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his visionary leadership, which has helped elevate the academy’s standing and impact.
Alumni and Legacy
In her remarks, Mrs. Adepeju Balogun, the outgoing Chairperson of the LJLA Alumni Association Advisory Council, described the Academy as a beacon of excellence under the stewardship of Governor Sanwo-Olu. She commended the graduates and alumni for their outstanding contributions to leadership across Nigeria.
The event also featured the unveiling of a new book, authored by the graduating Fellows, which chronicles their experiences and insights gleaned throughout the course of their training.
Induction of New Fellows
In addition to the graduation ceremony, the event marked the formal induction of thirty new Fellows, ushering in the third cohort since the academy’s establishment. The inductees will undergo a rigorous twelve-month training programme designed to sharpen their leadership skills and deepen their understanding of governance, service, and national development.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed his confidence that the new Fellows would carry the values of excellence, integrity, and selfless service into their leadership roles in the years to come.
LJLA’s Growing Impact
The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, named in honour of the late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, a former Governor of Lagos State, has continued to strengthen its position as a key institution in the development of ethical and visionary leadership in the country. As it enters its third year, the academy remains committed to its mission of nurturing leaders who will contribute to sustainable growth and progress in Nigeria.
