Fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) have concluded a high-level leadership immersion in Singapore, offering them firsthand exposure to one of the world’s most admired models of inclusive nation-building, visionary governance, and sustainable development.
Led by Executive Secretary Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, the visit was anchored at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP), National University of Singapore.
Over five days, Fellows engaged in an intensive executive course on Transformation, Governance, and Leadership, exploring the core pillars of Singapore’s national progress: long-term planning, disciplined public service, economic diversification, and human capital development.
They also took part in a guided tour of the Housing & Development Board (HDB) Gallery, where more than 80% of Singaporeans live in government-supported housing. The Fellows observed firsthand how public policy serves as a powerful instrument for promoting equity and social cohesion. Programs like the Ethnic Integration Policy (EIP) exemplify Singapore’s active dedication to fostering multicultural harmony and maintaining social stability.
The engagement also featured a strategic dialogue with the Singapore Business Federation on the prospects and challenges of doing business in Africa, particularly Nigeria. Conversations around trade, investment, and regulatory reform underscored Nigeria’s potential to become a key player in Asia-Africa economic cooperation.
Another standout moment was a fireside chat with Professor Lim Siong Guan, former Head of Singapore’s Civil Service, who encouraged the Fellows to view governance through the lens of purpose, preparation, and nation-first thinking.
At the Marina Barrage, the Fellows explored Singapore’s world-class approach to water management, sustainability, and urban resilience, learning about the “Four National Taps” strategy and the NEWater system, a global benchmark in water recycling. A visit to EON Reality also highlighted how emerging technologies like virtual reality and AI are reshaping education and public administration.
Reflecting on the experience, Executive Secretary Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade stated:
“This International Policy Trip has been a masterclass in what’s possible when leadership is intentional and inclusive. Our Fellows have seen how infrastructure, innovation, and integrity can be aligned to build a resilient society. The real challenge now is not just to be inspired, but to act, to take these insights and translate them into homegrown solutions for Lagos and for Nigeria”.
For the Fellows, the experience was equally transformative.
“Witnessing how Singapore has institutionalized vision, discipline, and equity has completely reframed my perspective on public service”, said Marvellous Olusegun, a Fellow of the Academy. “It’s clear that great nations are built, not wished into existence. And that responsibility lies with each of us” He added.
The trip concluded with a formal certificate presentation at LKYSPP, marking the successful completion of the Fellows’ academic program and reaffirming their readiness to lead with purpose and principle.
With every dialogue and every site visit, the Singapore experience reasserted the Academy’s mission: to shape a new generation of ethical, visionary leaders committed to transformative public service.
