The Youth Leadership, Emergency Action and Development (YOU-LEAD) initiative, led by the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy in partnership with the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, has equipped young people in Lagos with leadership and emergency response skills aimed at driving community development and preparing them for emerging opportunities.
Speaking during the programme held in Lagos on Thursday, the Executive Secretary of the Academy, Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, said the initiative was designed to raise a new generation of solution-driven youths. According to her, “the YOU-LEAD initiative is structured to equip young people with the leadership capacity and emergency response skills needed to address real challenges within their communities.”
She explained that beyond theory, the programme focuses on practical learning that empowers participants to take responsibility and influence change at the grassroots level. “We are bringing leadership development closer to the people, ensuring that young individuals have access to opportunities that will help them grow and contribute meaningfully to society,” she added.
Agbaje-Okunade noted that the initiative aligns with broader efforts under the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to empower youths across the state. She revealed that thousands of young people apply annually for various leadership and fellowship programmes, reflecting a growing interest in personal development and civic engagement.
She further highlighted that platforms such as the YOU-LEAD programme and the Lagos Leadership Summit are helping participants build networks and unlock opportunities. “Some of our beneficiaries have already secured employment and business opportunities through the connections and exposure gained from these programmes,” she said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, Hon. Sesan Olowa, said the initiative is timely, especially as the axis continues to witness rapid industrial and economic growth. He stated that the council is committed to preparing young people to take advantage of these developments.
“As industrial activities expand within the Ibeju-Lekki corridor, there is an increasing need for our youths to acquire multiple skills that will make them employable and competitive,” Olowa said. “This is why we continue to partner with organisations to deliver impactful leadership and skills development programmes.”
He encouraged participants to begin building leadership qualities early, stressing that leadership goes beyond holding positions. According to him, “young people must understand that leadership is about responsibility, service and the ability to drive positive change within their communities.”
Participants at the training were exposed to hands-on sessions, including team-building exercises and leadership workshops focused on collaboration and problem-solving. Medical professionals also trained them on emergency response techniques such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and other basic life-saving skills, reinforcing the programme’s goal of creating well-rounded, responsive and community-focused youth leaders.
