Application Deadline: May 16th, 2026
Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy Fellowship Programme. Established in honour of the enduring legacy of Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, Lagos State’s first civilian governor, LJLA is committed to preparing change-driven individuals by equipping them with technical expertise and a strong foundation in integrity, innovation, and public service.
The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) Fellowship is a fully funded, twelve-month leadership development programme designed to nurture Nigeria’s next generation of ethical, visionary, and impact-driven leaders. It provides young Nigerians with deep exposure to public governance, practical leadership experience, strategic learning, and a supportive community that accelerates personal and professional growth.
At its core, the Fellowship bridges theory and practice, equipping Fellows to lead with integrity, address systemic challenges, and serve society effectively.
The programme is full-time and merit-
based, offering a transformative journey into the heart of public service and leadership.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
Be a Nigerian citizens
Between the ages of 25–35 as at the time of application.
Hold a minimum of an HND or a Bachelor’s degree.
Have at least two years of work experience.
Possess an NYSC or Exemption Certificate.
For civil servants, be within Grade Level 8–12.
Benefits
Innovative Leadership Curriculum
Participation in Community Projects
Hands-on Leadership Experience
Leadership Seminars and Workshops
Interactive Session With Renowned Leaders
Local and International Policy Trips
One-on-One Leadership Coaching
Alumni Network
Paid Fellowship
A paid Fellowship. Fellows will reside in a fully furnished apartment for the duration of the programme.
Commitment
The program is full-time. Fellows are expected to commit fully for its entire duration, as the key components are intensive, such as work placements, leadership seminars, policy trips, mentorship engagements, and community projects.
Four Core Components
The Fellowship is intentionally designed around four interconnected components that together create a holistic leadership experience:
1. Leadership Development
The programme includes a rich curriculum of seminars and interactive learning experiences covering leadership theory, ethical governance, strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, stakeholder engagement, and adaptive decision-making. This component also features dynamic sessions such as brown bag discussions, fireside chats with seasoned leaders, personalised coaching, and quarterly leadership seminars.
2. Work Placement
Fellows are placed within key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the Lagos State Government as Special Assistants, where they contribute directly to policy formulation, project implementation, and governance processes. This immersive placement offers firsthand exposure to the workings of government and allows Fellows to apply leadership principles in real time.
3. Community Project
Each Fellow conceptualises and leads a high-impact community initiative tailored to address a real-world challenge. These projects promote civic engagement and social impact, enabling Fellows to translate leadership theory into tangible benefits for communities.
4. Fellowship Network
Beyond the year of formal learning, Fellows become part of a vibrant LJLA Alumni Network, a community of values-based leaders committed to lifelong learning, collaboration, mentorship, and positive change across sectors.
