Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State Governor, hosted an inspiring Fireside Chat with the second cohort of Fellows from the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) on December 23, 2024.

Held at the Lagos House, Ikeja, the session provided a platform for dynamic interaction, fostering resilience and forward-thinking leadership among the Fellows.

Addressing the Fellows at the State Executive Council Chamber, where critical decisions shaping Lagos are made, Governor Sanwo-Olu underscored the importance of visionary and solution-driven leadership.

He encouraged the Fellows to harness the unique opportunities presented by the Academy, to innovate, contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development, and rise above challenges with determination.

“The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy was established to create leaders who will positively shape the trajectory of Nigeria and outlive us all,” said Governor Sanwo-Olu. He highlighted the Academy’s role in challenging change-oriented individuals while shaping their lives and perspectives.

He further reiterated, “The Academy’s impact goes beyond achieving immediate objectives; it is dedicated to creating a legacy that strengthens our nation’s democratic governance. This initiative reflects our intentional commitment to equipping you with the expertise and practical skills needed to contribute to policy making, evaluate performance, and assess the societal impact of government programs.”

“As you participate in this life-changing journey, I encourage you to harness your new skills, knowledge, and insights to champion positive change within your communities”, the Governor added

Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, the Executive Secretary of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, expressed her gratitude to the Governor, stating that, “The steadfast dedication of our amiable Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has been instrumental in refining the leadership capabilities of the Fellows and fostering a culture of excellence.”

“His hands-on mentorship and visionary guidance exemplify the Academy’s mission to shape well-rounded, ethical, and innovative leaders. The Governor’s personal involvement serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility and privilege of leadership”, Ayisat added.

The Governor also reflected on the legacy of Alhaji Lateef Jakande, Lagos State’s first civilian governor, whose dedication to education, housing, and transportation continues to inspire the Academy’s vision.

The Fireside Chat, a significant part of the LJLA Fellowship program, serves as an interactive platform for Fellows to engage with industry leaders and thought influencers in an intimate setting.

Guided by the Chatham House Rule, these sessions foster honest dialogue, critical reflection, and collaborative problem-solving, preparing Fellows to navigate the complexities of governance and public service.

This session is part of LJLA’s broader commitment to cultivating leaders who are equipped to address Nigeria’s most pressing challenges with resilience, inclusivity, and innovation.

Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha is the Aviation Correspondent at BusinessDay Media Limited, publishers of BusinessDay Newspapers. She is also the Deputy Editor, BusinessDay Weekender Magazine, the Saturday Weekend edition of BusinessDay. She holds a BSC in Mass Communication from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka and a Masters degree in Marketing at the University of Lagos. As the lead writer on the aviation desk, Ifeoma is responsible and in charge of the three weekly aviation and travel pages in BusinessDay and BDSunday. She also overseas and edits all pages of BusinessDay Saturday Weekender. She has written various investigative, features and news stories in aviation and business related issues and has been severally nominated for award in the category of Aviation Writer of the Year by the Nigeria Media Nite-Out awards; one of the Nigeria’s most prestigious media awards ceremonies. Ifeoma is a one-time winner of the prestigious Nigeria Media Merit Award under the 'Aviation Writer of the Year' Category. She is the 2025 Eloy Award winner under the Print Media Journalist category. She has undergone several journalism trainings by various prestigious organisations. Ifeoma is also a fellow of the Female Reporters Leadership Fellowship of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism.

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