The Obafemi Awolowo Foundation has announced the opening of applications for the Ọbafẹmi Awolọwọ Future Leaders Fellowship Programme.
The programme is a highly selective, merit-based initiative inspired by the enduring legacy of Chief Ọbafẹmi Awolọwọ.
The Fellowship, which reflects the Foundation’s commitment to moving from celebrating history to shaping the future, is designed to nurture a new generation of ethical, visionary and impact-driven leaders across Africa, the Caribbean and the global diaspora.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Foundation said the fellowship is open to young people aged 20–35 and seeks to equip participants with the values, discipline, knowledge and leadership skills required to make meaningful contributions to society.
The Foundation recalled that the initiative was first announced at the 2026 Ọbafẹmi Awolọwọ Memorial Lecture on March 6 and noted that the Fellowship was inspired by Chief Awolowo’s enduring commitment to principled governance, social justice and human development through education.
According to the Foundation, young people across Africa today face economic uncertainty and deep social inequalities, yet remain extraordinarily talented, innovative and globally connected. What many require is structured support, mentorship and a values-based leadership framework capable of translating potential into transformational impact.
The Foundation explained that the Fellowship was conceived to bridge that gap by connecting Awolowo’s leadership ideals with the contemporary realities of governance, public service, entrepreneurship and social development.
“The programme aims to build a vibrant pan-African network of future leaders who embody integrity, excellence and service, while fostering an alumni community that will continue to grow in influence and impact,” the statement said.
Participants will engage in leadership development, personal effectiveness training, mentorship, collaborative learning and practical problem-solving focused on real societal challenges.
The inaugural Fellowship will run for eight weeks beginning on October 4, 2026, with virtual sessions held every Saturday from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Nigeria Time, WAT – UTC+1).
The Foundation stressed that admission into the Fellowship is strictly merit-based and that applicants will be required to submit a personal statement and provide two referees.
Interested persons are invited to submit their applications via: https://obafemiawolowofoundation.com/future-leaders-fellowship/For further information, applicants may contact the Programme Coordinator via email:[email protected]; [email protected]. Applications close on August 31, 2026.
