Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has praised the remarkable impact of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) as he presided over a dual ceremony on Friday, August 29, 2025, celebrating the graduation of 30 Fellows from the 2024/2025 class while inducting a new cohort for the upcoming academic year.
The ceremony highlighted the academy’s growing influence in developing ethical leaders for Nigeria, with the governor emphasising the institution’s role in transforming the country’s leadership landscape.
Transformative Leadership Development
During his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the graduating Fellows for their dedication throughout the intensive year-long programme. He described the academy as a cornerstone institution that cultivates leadership based on vision, preparation, and integrity.
“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 prioritises character, competence, and service above all else,” the governor declared.
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to establishing LJLA as a globally recognised institution capable of grooming leaders who inspire positive change both within Lagos State and across Nigeria.
Impressive Graduate Outcomes
Executive Secretary Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade revealed the academy’s remarkable success rate, announcing that 60 Fellows have now graduated since its inception, with over 85% currently serving in leadership positions across various sectors. This achievement underscores the programme’s effectiveness in preparing participants for real-world leadership challenges.
“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 noted, while expressing gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his visionary support.
She emphasized the crucial need for continued public-private sector collaboration to expand leadership development opportunities throughout Nigeria.
Alumni Excellence and New Beginnings
Outgoing Alumni Association Advisory Council Chairperson Adepeju Balogun praised the academy as “a beacon of excellence” under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s stewardship, highlighting the outstanding contributions of graduates and alumni to leadership across the country.
The ceremony featured the launch of a new publication authored by the graduating Fellows, documenting their experiences and insights from the rigorous training programme.
Third Cohort Begins Journey
The event also marked the formal induction of 30 new Fellows, representing the academy’s third cohort since its establishment. These inductees will embark on a comprehensive 12-month training programme designed to enhance their leadership capabilities and deepen their understanding of governance, public service, and national development.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence that the new Fellows would embody the academy’s core values of excellence, integrity, and selfless service as they assume leadership roles in their respective fields.
Building on a Legacy
Named in honor of the late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, former Lagos State Governor, the academy continues to strengthen its position as a premier institution for ethical and visionary leadership development in Nigeria. As it enters its third year of operation, LJLA remains steadfast in its mission to nurture leaders who will drive sustainable growth and progress across the nation.
The academy’s success reflects Lagos State’s broader commitment to human capital development and its recognition that quality leadership is essential for Nigeria’s continued advancement.Sanwo-Olu Celebrates 30 New Leaders as Lagos Leadership Academy Graduates Third Class
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has praised the remarkable impact of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) as he presided over a dual ceremony on Friday, August 29, 2025, celebrating the graduation of 30 Fellows from the 2024/2025 class while inducting a new cohort for the upcoming academic year.
The ceremony highlighted the academy’s growing influence in developing ethical leaders for Nigeria, with the governor emphasizing the institution’s role in transforming the country’s leadership landscape.
Transformative Leadership Development
During his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the graduating Fellows for their dedication throughout the intensive year-long programme. He described the academy as a cornerstone institution that cultivates leadership based on vision, preparation, and integrity.
“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,” the governor declared.
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to establishing LJLA as a globally recognized institution capable of grooming leaders who inspire positive change both within Lagos State and across Nigeria.
Impressive Graduate Outcomes
Executive Secretary Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade revealed the academy’s remarkable success rate, announcing that 60 Fellows have now graduated since its inception, with over 85% currently serving in leadership positions across various sectors. This achievement underscores the programme’s effectiveness in preparing participants for real-world leadership challenges.
“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 noted, while expressing gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his visionary support.
She emphasized the crucial need for continued public-private sector collaboration to expand leadership development opportunities throughout Nigeria.
Alumni Excellence and New Beginnings
Outgoing Alumni Association Advisory Council Chairperson Adepeju Balogun praised the academy as “a beacon of excellence” under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s stewardship, highlighting the outstanding contributions of graduates and alumni to leadership across the country.
The ceremony featured the launch of a new publication authored by the graduating Fellows, documenting their experiences and insights from the rigorous training programme.
Third Cohort Begins Journey
The event also marked the formal induction of 30 new Fellows, representing the academy’s third cohort since its establishment. These inductees will embark on a comprehensive 12-month training programme designed to enhance their leadership capabilities and deepen their understanding of governance, public service, and national development.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence that the new Fellows would embody the academy’s core values of excellence, integrity, and selfless service as they assume leadership roles in their respective fields.
Building on a Legacy
Named in honor of the late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, former Lagos State Governor, the academy continues to strengthen its position as a premier institution for ethical and visionary leadership development in Nigeria. As it enters its third year of operation, LJLA remains steadfast in its mission to nurture leaders who will drive sustainable growth and progress across the nation.
The academy’s success reflects Lagos State’s broader commitment to human capital development and its recognition that quality leadership is essential for Nigeria’s continued advancement.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
