LAGOS — Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has urged members of the 2025/2026 cohort of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy to embrace accountability, listen to the people and make decisions with a strong sense of purpose as they prepare for the next phase of their careers.
Sanwo-Olu gave the charge during a final mentorship session with the Academy’s fellows at Lagos House, Marina, where he reflected on the demands of leadership and shared lessons from his own experience in public service.
The governor said effective leadership is not necessarily about having all the answers from the beginning, but about possessing the willingness to listen, make difficult decisions and remain accountable for the consequences of those decisions.
According to him, leaders must consistently place the interests and welfare of the people at the centre of their decisions, particularly when dealing with complex issues that require difficult choices.
“Real leadership rarely means having every answer upfront,” Sanwo-Olu said, stressing the importance of listening, accountability and people-centred decision-making.
During the engagement, the governor shared insights from his journey in public service with the young leaders, while also listening to their perspectives and ideas concerning the future development of Lagos State.
He described the interaction as an opportunity for mutual learning, noting that while the Academy provides young Nigerians with exposure to leadership and public administration, the fellows also bring fresh ideas and perspectives that can contribute to the future of the state.
The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy was established as part of efforts to develop a new generation of leaders equipped with the knowledge, experience and values required to contribute meaningfully to public service and society.
The 2025/2026 cohort has undergone various learning and mentorship experiences designed to expose the fellows to leadership, governance and practical approaches to solving societal challenges.
Sanwo-Olu encouraged the fellows to take the lessons acquired during their time at the Academy beyond the programme and apply them in their respective fields.
He expressed hope that their experiences would strengthen their commitment to service and inspire them to become responsible leaders capable of making positive contributions to Lagos and Nigeria.
“As the Fellows take their next steps beyond the Academy, I hope they carry these lessons with them and continue to lead with purpose and a genuine commitment to service,” the governor said.
The governor’s message comes as the fellows prepare to conclude their time at the Academy and move into new professional and leadership opportunities.
He emphasised that leadership should be viewed not simply as a position of authority, but as a responsibility to serve, listen and make decisions in the best interest of the people.
The final mentorship session therefore provided the fellows with an opportunity to reflect on their experiences at the Academy while receiving practical guidance from the governor on the responsibilities that come with leadership and public service.
Sanwo-Olu’s engagement with the fellows further highlighted the importance of investing in young people and preparing them to play meaningful roles in shaping the future of Lagos State and the country at large.
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