APPLICATION IS NOW OPEN: The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) 2026/2027 Fellowship Programme

A fully funded, one-year opportunity for young Nigerians ready to lead.

If you've ever dreamed of understanding how governance actually works from the inside — not from a textbook, but from a front-row seat — this is your moment.

The Lagos State Government has announced the opening of applications for the 2026/2027 cohort of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) Fellowship Programme  

What is the LJLA Fellowship?

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.  

This is a fully funded, one-year leadership development programme designed to raise a new generation of ethical and impact-driven leaders in Nigeria.   It is not theoretical. Selected fellows will engage in shadowing Lagos State Cabinet members, participate in roundtable discussions with top leaders, and take part in domestic and international policy trips. 

Leadership development activities include Brown-Bag Series, Fireside Chats, and Personalized Coaching. Fellows also lead high-impact community service projects.  (After School Africa)

Who Can Apply?

The LJLA Fellowship Programme is open to both public and private sector applicants who meet the following criteria:

- be a Nigerian citizen, be between 25 and 35 years old, 

-hold a minimum of a Bachelor's degree or Higher National Diploma (HND), 

-have at least two years of work experience, and possess a valid NYSC certificate or exemption certificate. 

Public sector applicants from Lagos State must be within Grade Level 8–12.  (ljla)

How to Apply — Step by Step

The selection process involves: an online application submission, a Computer-Based Test (CBT), an essay submission to assess written communication skills, a competency-based interview, and final selection and induction into the programme.  

Apply directly at or using the link below 👇🏼 

ljlaportal.com

Applications opened on April 16, 2026 and will close on May 16, 2026.  That gives you exactly one month — use it wisely.

Why This Matters

Most young Nigerians with ambition and talent never get a structured pathway into governance. This fellowship offers something most early-career professionals rarely get: structured access to leadership, governance, and policy-making at the highest state level. 

The programme builds a strong alumni network of high-potential youth, fostering peer-to-peer coaching, collaboration, and social consciousness, with the goal of promoting unity, national integration, and shared vision among participants. 

If you qualify, do not wait. Apply at www.ljla.academy before May 16, 2026.

Share this with every young Nigerian you know who deserves a seat at the table.