Applications are now open for the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) 2026/2027 Fellowship Programme, a prestigious leadership initiative designed to equip outstanding young Nigerians with the knowledge, exposure, and practical experience required to become transformational leaders in public service and beyond.
The fellowship is targeted at ambitious and visionary Nigerians who are passionate about leadership, governance, and creating sustainable impact in their communities and across the country.
Named in honour of Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, the first civilian governor of Lagos State, the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy was established to continue his legacy of visionary governance, integrity, and service. The Academy serves as a platform for grooming future leaders by developing individuals who possess both the passion and the potential to influence Nigeria’s future positively.
Through a carefully structured leadership programme, LJLA provides fellows with practical exposure to governance systems, strategic leadership training, mentorship opportunities, and direct engagement with experienced policymakers and administrators. The Academy’s mission is to nurture ethical, resilient, and solution-driven leaders capable of addressing complex national challenges.
Unlike conventional training schemes, the LJLA Fellowship combines classroom-based learning with real-world leadership immersion, ensuring that fellows acquire both theoretical and practical competence in leadership and public problem-solving.
Fellowship Benefits and Experience
Successful applicants will gain access to a wide range of transformational opportunities, including:
- Innovative and immersive learning curriculum
- Hands-on leadership and governance experience
- Participation in impactful community development projects
- Mentorship from distinguished leaders and experts
- Personalised one-on-one leadership coaching
- Opportunity to shadow Lagos State cabinet members
- Access to an expanding network of LJLA alumni
- Continuous multi-source performance feedback for growth and improvement
These experiences are designed to help fellows sharpen their leadership abilities, strengthen decision-making skills, and develop the confidence required to lead effectively in complex environments.
Eligibility Criteria
The LJLA Fellowship Programme is open to qualified applicants from both the public and private sectors.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be Nigerian citizens
- Be between 25 and 35 years old
- Have at least two years of work experience
- Hold a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or Higher National Diploma (HND)
- Possess a valid NYSC discharge certificate or exemption certificate
Additional requirement for Lagos State public sector applicants:
- Must currently be within Grade Level 8 to 12
Application Timeline
- Application Opens: April 16, 2026
- Application Closes: May 16, 2026
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline, as late entries may not be considered.
How to Apply
Applications must be completed online through the official LJLA application portal.
For young Nigerians seeking a platform to build leadership capacity and contribute meaningfully to national development, the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy Fellowship offers a significant opportunity to begin that journey.
APPLY HERE
Read also: Shell Graduate Programme 2026 Nigeria Application for Graduates
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