Fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) recently convened for an engaging Fireside Chat with Mr. Ayo Ibaru, Chief Executive Officer of Northcourt and Co-founder of Build Africa, in a session that explored the themes of value creation, intentional growth, and long-term thinking.
Drawing from his extensive experience in leadership, entrepreneurship, and investment, Mr. Ibaru challenged Fellows to look beyond short-term achievements and focus on building lives and careers anchored in purpose, continuous growth, and lasting impact. He emphasized that meaningful success is not achieved through quick wins but through consistent effort, deliberate action, and a commitment to creating value over time.
The conversation highlighted the importance of continuously developing one’s skills, investing in meaningful relationships, and cultivating values that inspire trust, credibility, and influence. According to Mr. Ibaru, the strongest foundations for sustainable success are built through learning, discipline, and the ability to remain committed to personal and professional development.
The session also explored the realities of growth and leadership, with Mr. Ibaru reminding Fellows that impact comes at a cost. He stressed that progress requires patience, intentionality, and the willingness to embrace mistakes as part of the learning process. Rather than viewing setbacks as failures, he encouraged Fellows to see them as opportunities for growth, resilience, and self-improvement.
The discussion sparked thoughtful reflection among Fellows, many of whom described the conversation as a timely reminder that long-term success is shaped by the decisions made today. Key themes that resonated throughout the session included purpose-driven leadership, continuous learning, resilience, and the importance of building a legacy grounded in value creation.
In her remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Academy, Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, reaffirmed LJLA’s commitment to nurturing leaders who are equipped to think strategically, act intentionally, and create sustainable impact. She noted that exposing Fellows to accomplished leaders and practitioners remains a critical part of the Academy’s mission to develop transformational leaders for society.
As the session concluded, Fellows departed with a deeper appreciation for the discipline of long-term thinking and the understanding that lasting impact is built through consistent growth, meaningful relationships, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
The Fireside Chat concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Fellow Adebukola Abadariki, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Ayo Ibaru for sharing valuable insights on leadership, value creation, and the discipline of long-term thinking.He also commended the Academy for consistently creating opportunities for Fellows to engage with accomplished leaders whose experiences inspire purposeful growth, continuous learning, and impactful leadership.
The Fireside Chat further reflects LJLA’s mission to raise a generation of leaders who are driven by purpose, committed to continuous improvement, and focused on creating enduring value in every sphere of influence.
