We’re Raising Leaders Who’ll Rise Above Self-interests, Says Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said that the state government is currently investing in its people and raising leaders who will rise above self-interests and honour the towering legacy of Alhaji Lateef Jakande who governed the state with vision and served with simplicity.

The governor stated this at the graduation of Fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, Class of 2024/2025, who graduated after one year of fully funded residential training, by the Lagos State government.

The ceremony also culminated in the induction of 30 new fellows for 2025/2026, ushering in a new generation of future leaders tasked with advancing the academy’s vision and values.

Sanwo-Olu, who said the purpose of the academy is to bridge the gap between youth aspirations and leadership, commended the resilience of the graduating fellows, noting that the academy represents a turning point in building a culture of leadership rooted in vision, preparation and character.

He pledged his administration’s commitment to making the Academy one of the foremost in the world, saying it will continue to nurture leaders who embrace responsibility and inspire others through purposeful service.

He said, “With the signing of the LJLA Bill into law, we have sent a clear signal: leadership development is not a passing fancy in Lagos State. It is an enduring covenant.

“The institutionalisation of this academy is not merely a legislative act; it is a moral vow that Lagos will never abandon the cultivation of talent and the nurturing of leaders.”

Earlier, the executive secretary of the academy, Mrs Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, disclosed that so far, 60 fellows have passed through the institution, with more than 85 per cent of them now serving in leadership positions across various sectors to drive positive change.

She commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his visionary leadership and stressed the need for stronger collaboration between government and the private sector to expand opportunities and prepare future generations of leaders.

The outgoing alumni chairperson of the LJLA Alumni Association Advisory Council, Mrs Adepeju Balogun, described the academy as a beacon of excellence under Governor Sanwo-Olu, producing fellows and alumni who are excelling in leadership roles across the country.