In a bid to cultivate leaders who understand the intersection of governance, systems, and civic responsibility, the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) convened its Fellows for a BrownBag session with Dr. Olajide Babatunde, Special Adviser on Enterprise Geographic Information Systems and Urban Development to the Governor of Lagos State. The session focused on practical leadership and the role of young people in shaping society.

Dr. Babatunde urged the Fellows to see leadership as an immediate responsibility, not a future title.

“Leadership is not something you wait for; it is a responsibility you carry now, and young people are already shaping today’s progress,” he said.

Reinforcing the Academy’s commitment to practical leadership, Executive Secretary Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade emphasized the importance of preparing Fellows to take responsibility today.

“At the Academy, we are intentional about grooming leaders who understand that governance is reflected in the systems we build and the standards we uphold. Our BrownBag Series creates a space for Fellows to sit with policymakers, explore practical insights, and reflect on leadership as a present responsibility” she stated.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Fellow Opelopejesu Owolabi expressed gratitude for the insights shared and the opportunity to engage directly with policymakers shaping Lagos State’s development.

“We are grateful for the clarity and challenge extended to us today; the call to build systems that endure while treating leadership as a present responsibility will stay with us,” she said.

The session was also attended by BLDR. Florence Gbaye, General Manager of the Lagos State Building Control Agency, and Oluwasegun Williams, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Urban Development, highlighting the Academy’s collaboration with key stakeholders in governance and urban planning.