From classroom to community: How QHSES Leadership Academy drives saftainability across Nigeria

…Graduates 238 in 2024, awards over N800,000 to top students at 3rd convocation

The QHSES Leadership Academy recently graduated 238 students in its 2024 cohort, emphasising the importance of ‘saftainability’—a blend of sustainability and safety— in nation-building. The ceremony highlighted how adherence to these principles can prevent tragedies and promote a better future for Nigeria.

At the third convocation ceremony, held recently in Lagos, Remilekun Soyannwo, Finance Director at Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo), stated the importance of integrating these principles into daily life. “If we don’t stay safe, nobody is safe,” Soyannwo said. “The quality of our environment and the resources we use directly impacts our nation’s future. We must pay great attention to sustainability because what we do today matters for those who come after us.”

The QHSES Leadership Academy, which stands for Quality, Health, Safety, Environment, and Sustainability, is a tuition-free institution accredited by the American Council of Training and Development (ACTD) and certified to ISO 9001:2015 standards. The academy’s mission is to develop leaders who make a lasting positive impact on their communities and beyond.

Jamiu Badmus, founder of the academy, in his address, shared the vision behind its creation. “The academy was founded in 2021 to add value to Nigeria by educating our youth on sustainability, health, and safety,” Badmus said.

“We believe that for our nation to progress, we need to be more educated in these areas, which we have combined into what we call ‘Saftainability.’ Our graduates are equipped not just with knowledge but with the ability to add value to society.”

In the three years since its inception, the QHSES Leadership Academy has grown significantly. The first class in 2022 saw 94 graduates; by 2023, this number had risen to 272, and in 2024, the academy celebrated the graduation of 238 students. Among these, nine students graduated with distinctions, and the best-performing students received over N800,000 in cash awards.

The founder also highlighted the academy’s commitment to practical impact, imploring graduates to be actively involved in initiatives such as “Safetainability for Orphanage.” This program involves assessing and improving orphanage facilities, training staff and wards in safety practices, and providing gifts and support. “Our alumni are making a difference, and we encourage them to continue adding value wherever they go,” Badmus said.

Top graduates also shared their experiences and the lessons learned during their time at the academy. Okuwobi Jesutofunmi, the best male graduating student, stressed the importance of making safety a core value rather than just a priority. “Safety should be ingrained in everything we do—whether at home, at work, or in society at large,” he said. “I encourage young people to join this academy and gain the knowledge needed to keep themselves and their families safe.”

Similarly, Adeboyejo Lateefah, the best female graduate, reflected on her journey from knowing nothing about health and safety to becoming a knowledgeable advocate. “In six months and 54 courses, I have learned how to create and add value in ways that make a real difference,” she said. “It is the little things that count—small gestures can make the world a better place.”

As the QHSES Leadership Academy continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its mission to educate and empower future leaders. The 238 graduates of the 2024 cohort are now part of a movement that aims to make Nigeria safer, more sustainable, and better prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow.