The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy strengthened its commitment to youth leadership development on Tuesday as its Fellows engaged in a strategic Brown Bag Session hosted at the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund office. The engagement brought together emerging leaders, enterprise specialists, and public sector executives for an insightful conversation on the future of employment, innovation, and economic growth in Lagos State.
The session formed part of the Academy’s efforts to expose Fellows to practical governance experiences and was led by the Executive Secretary of the Academy, Mrs Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade. She described the Series as an important bridge between theory and lived leadership practice, affirming that the Academy is intentional about raising leaders who can translate policy into meaningful action.
Mrs Agbaje-Okunade stated that leadership demands clarity, consistency, and a people-focused approach.
“Leadership is sustained by clarity of vision and the courage to act,” she said. “Our objective is to ensure that our Fellows understand policy, but also understand people. We want them to know how to engage constructively, build value, and create solutions that endure beyond political cycles.”
She added that the Academy remains committed to nurturing leaders who value collaboration, respect human capital, and recognise that lasting change requires working through networks and collective intelligence.
The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, Mrs Feyisayo Alayande, welcomed the Fellows and offered a comprehensive overview of the Fund’s work in reducing unemployment, supporting enterprises, and empowering the Lagos workforce. Drawing from her experience in global banking and financial services, she explained that LSETF’s mandate has evolved to meet the needs of a rapidly changing economy.
“Our goal is not only to provide financial support but to create an enabling environment where entrepreneurs especially young people can access markets, acquire the right skills, and receive the mentorship needed to scale their ideas,” Alayande said.
“We are committed to building sustainable structures that allow businesses to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the State’s economic development.”
Fellows described the session as both enlightening and practical, noting that the insights shared expanded their understanding of the link between leadership, enterprise development, and economic inclusion. They also commended the openness and depth of the engagement provided by the LSETF leadership team.
Fellow Anuoluwapo Adebanjo delivered the vote of thanks and highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between leadership development institutions and economic support agencies in Lagos State.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to learn directly from those shaping economic policy in Lagos. Sessions like this remind us of the responsibility we carry as emerging leaders and the impact we can make when we are properly equipped,” she said.
The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy remains committed to developing visionary and ethical leaders who will contribute to a more prosperous future for Lagos State and Nigeria.
