The Lagos State Government has announced the opening of applications for the 2026/2027 cohort of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) Fellowship Programme.
This was disclosed in a statement shared on the government’s official X platform, inviting qualified Nigerians to apply for the fully funded leadership development programme.
The initiative is designed to groom young professionals for leadership roles in public service and policy development.
What they are saying
The fellowship is open to Nigerians between the ages of 25 and 35 who have at least two years of work experience and hold a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or Higher National Diploma, alongside a valid NYSC certificate or exemption.
The programme will combine practical work experience, leadership development sessions, and community service.
- Fellows will work closely with members of the Lagos State Cabinet, gaining first-hand exposure to decision-making processes in government while also participating in seminars, coaching sessions, and leadership engagements.
- Public sector applicants within Lagos State must also be within Grade Level 8 to 12.
- Fellows will also undertake a high-impact project aimed at improving their communities, while participating in collaborative initiatives focused on enhancing the lives of Lagos residents.
Applications for the 2026/2027 fellowship opened on April 16, 2026, and will close on May 16, 2026.
Interested applicants are required to complete an online application via the official portal.
Application process
Interested applicants are required to complete an online application through the academy’s portal.
The selection process includes:
- A computer-based test
- Essay submission
- Competency-based interview
Successful candidates will then be inducted into the fellowship programme.
What you should know
The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy was launched in 2023 by the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in honour of Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, who served as Lagos State’s first civilian governor from 1979 to 1983.
The programme is a fully funded 12-month fellowship to build a pipeline of young leaders for public service. It combines structured learning with hands-on experience in government, giving participants direct exposure to policymaking and public administration.
Its relevance comes as Nigeria’s labour market remains highly competitive, with thousands of young people competing for limited opportunities. Data from the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) shows that over 46,000 job seekers were recorded in Lagos in 2024.
The report shows a clear gap between job seekers and available roles, with only 22,630 openings recorded, averaging about 2,837 per month, highlighting growing pressure in the labour market.
