The Academy was created to respond to Nigeria’s persistent leadership deficit by preparing young people early for the responsibilities and realities of leadership across public service, private enterprise, and civic life. It bridges the gap between leadership aspiration and leadership readiness by combining values, skills, exposure, and practice into an integrated leadership journey.

Established to create a steady stream of young, competent professionals ready for government service and beyond. 

We recognise that the youth potential is untapped with nearly 50% of the population being young people, we want to move them from “aspirants” to “participants”. 

Leadership isn’t accidental; it requires deliberate preparation in policy formulation, ethics and strategic thinking. 

The Academy is a living tribute to the Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, who lived a modest life and prioritised the masses. By naming the Academy after him, the State intends to instill those specific values- integrity, speed of execution, and empathy - into the next generation of leaders.

The Academy is grounded in the belief that leadership is a discipline that can be intentionally learned, practised, and strengthened over time. Its philosophy centres on ethical judgment, service, strategic thinking, accountability, and impact. Leadership at the Academy is understood not as title or privilege, but as responsibility, competence, and a sustained commitment to the common good.

The Academy primarily serves young Nigerians who demonstrate leadership promise, a commitment to service, and a desire to create meaningful impact. Beyond direct participants, the Academy also serves public institutions, communities, partners, and society at large by strengthening the quality of leadership talent available to Nigeria.

The Academy works across public service, private sector leadership, civic engagement, social impact, and community development. Its approach is intentionally cross-sectoral, reflecting the belief that national progress requires leaders who can collaborate across institutions, professions, and communities.

Leadership development at the Academy blends structured learning, mentorship, hands on experience, policy exposure, civic engagement, and reflective practice. Participants are challenged to think critically about complex societal issues and to apply leadership principles in real contexts where decisions, ethics, and outcomes have tangible consequences.

No. While learning is central to the Academy’s work, its approach goes beyond conventional training. The Academy functions as a leadership ecosystem that integrates learning with action, exposure, mentorship, and long term support. The aim is not just to educate leaders, but to prepare them to carry responsibility and deliver sustained impact.

The Academy’s work is anchored on three interconnected pillars. Development focuses on building leadership knowledge, skills, and values. Deployment translates learning into action through practical engagement and service. Sustainability ensures long term leadership impact by nurturing a lifelong community of leaders committed to continuous learning, collaboration, and service.

The Academy strengthens governance by building a pipeline of capable, ethical, and reform minded leaders who understand public institutions, service delivery, and the human consequences of policy decisions. Through hands-on engagement and exposure, participants contribute meaningfully to public sector outcomes while deepening their understanding of leadership in practice.

Beyond structured programmes, the Academy engages young people through leadership conversations, civic initiatives, volunteerism, school based leadership clubs, and public platforms that promote leadership values, civic responsibility, and national consciousness.