Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI) Cohort 5: Call for Applications Now Open

If you are a young Nigerian with a passion for governance, policy, and public service, here is an opportunity worth your attention. The Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI) has opened applications for its 5th Cohort, and applicants have just about three weeks to apply.

What Is LMI?

The Legislative Mentorship Initiative is a leadership development and mentorship fellowship founded by Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, CFR — former Speaker of Nigeria's 9th House of Representatives and current Chief of Staff to the President. LMI was established to develop the next generation of legislators and ethical public sector leaders equipped with the leadership skills, knowledge, and expertise to enhance public service delivery and foster national unity.

The programme runs in partnership with the Office of the Speaker, House of Representatives, the Conference of Speakers and Presidents of African Legislatures (COSPAL), and the National Assembly Library Trust Fund (NALTF), with the Leadership Advancement Foundation and National Assembly also listed as partners.

Since its inception, LMI has trained over 200 fellows from 36+ states across Nigeria, and more than 60 alumni now serve in public office — including elected legislators.

What Does the Fellowship Involve?

-LMI is a fully residential fellowship built around:

-Legislative process and parliamentary history training

-Value-based leadership development

-Mentorship from seasoned legislators and public sector leaders

-Internship and career opportunities within public institutions

-Based on past cohorts, the programme typically spans about 10 weeks total — roughly 3 weeks of residential training, followed by an internship placement and virtual training/community engagement. Fellows who complete the programme are conferred the title "Fellow of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative (FLMI)."

Who Is It For?

-The Fellowship is open to Nigerians aged 21–35, and based on prior cohorts, successful applicants typically:

-Are Nigerian citizens

-Hold at least a Degree or HND from a recognized institution

-Show strong leadership potential and a track record of community or societal impact

-Are fluent in English, with clear communication and writing skills

-Demonstrate integrity, patriotism, and commitment to national development

-According to Hon. Henry Nwawuba, Chairman of the LMI Selection Committee, academic qualifications alone won't determine who gets in — the committee is also looking for character, critical thinking, curiosity, and a genuine willingness to learn and serve.

-Country/State Eligibility: Open to Nigerian citizens only, nationwide (all 36 states and the FCT are eligible to apply).

How to Apply

Visit the application portal: https://app.lmi.ng/

Complete the online application form

Submit a Personal Statement and an updated CV

Upload a 1-minute video introducing yourself and explaining why you should be selected

Key Dates

Application Opens

13th August, 2026

Application Closes

3rd September, 2026

Apply Here

https://app.lmi.ng/

Why This Matters

For Arewa youth and young Nigerians more broadly who are serious about a future in policy, governance, or elected office, LMI offers a rare, credible pathway — direct mentorship from sitting legislators, hands-on exposure to how laws are actually made, and a growing alumni network already producing elected leaders. With applications closing in just three weeks, interested applicants should start preparing their CV, personal statement, and video pitch now rather than waiting till the deadline.

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