Applications will soon open for the Lateef Jakande Fellowship Program 2026, an initiative of the Lagos State Government designed to empower young Nigerians with leadership training, governance experience, and career development opportunities.
The Lagos State Fellowship Program is a fully funded one-year programme that provides participants with hands-on exposure to government operations, mentorship from top leaders, and opportunities to contribute to public policy and community development in Lagos State.
Program Summary
- Host: Lagos State Government
- Category: Training | Fellowships
- Eligible Countries: Nigeria
- Reward: Leadership Training | Employment Opportunities | Networking | Governance Experience
- Deadline: Opens in April
Fellowship Details
The Lateef Jakande Fellowship Program was established by Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, to nurture the next generation of Nigerian leaders.
The programme offers a non-partisan and merit-based opportunity for talented young Nigerians who are passionate about public service, governance, and national development. Through this fellowship, participants gain first-hand experience in the workings of state government, participate in round-table discussions with leaders from the public and private sectors, and take part in policy-related study trips both within and outside Nigeria.
The initiative aims to develop future leaders by equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundation needed to influence governance and public service positively. Fellows will also receive direct mentorship and on-the-job training, enabling them to understand policymaking and leadership in practice.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Lagos State Fellowship Program, applicants must:
- Be a Nigerian citizen
- Have at least 3 years of work experience
- Be under 35 years old
- Hold a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree
- Have completed the NYSC programme or possess an exemption letter
Fellowship Benefits
The Lateef Jakande Fellowship Program runs for one year and provides fellows with several development opportunities, including:
Work Experience
- Fellows will shadow members of the Lagos State Cabinet
- This experience is conducted on a rotational basis after six months in the programme
Leadership Development
Participants will undergo structured leadership training through:
- Brown-Bag Series discussions
- Fireside Chats with experienced leaders
- Leadership seminars and workshops
- Personalized coaching sessions
- Continuous multi-source feedback
Community Service
Fellows will undertake high-impact community projects designed to transform communities within Lagos State. Participants will also collaborate on a major people-centered project aimed at improving the lives of Lagos residents during the fellowship year.
Fellowship Network
The programme builds a strong alumni network of high-potential young Nigerians, providing fellows with:
- Peer-to-peer mentorship and coaching
- Professional networking opportunities
- Collaborative learning experiences
The goal is to promote unity across Nigeria’s diverse backgrounds while building a network of socially conscious leaders.
How to Apply
To apply for the Lateef Jakande Fellowship Program 2026, interested candidates should:
- Visit the official fellowship webpage
- Submit the online application form
Applicants who pass the initial stage will go through the following process:
- Computer-Based Test (CBT) for successful applicants
- Essay submission to evaluate written communication skills
- Competency-based interview for shortlisted candidates
- Final induction into the fellowship programme for selected fellows
To begin the application process, click HERE
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To receive more scholarship updates, click HERE
