The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) has announced plans to commence applications for a new cohort, calling on qualified young Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunity.
The academy made this known in a statement shared with Nigeria Startup News on Tuesday, as part of efforts to expand its reach and groom the next generation of leaders across the country.
According to the statement, the application portal will officially open on April 16, 2026, and close on May 16, 2026.
The organisers noted that this year’s recruitment drive is being handled with a more intentional approach, particularly through partnerships with media and community platforms that align with its leadership development goals.
“As we prepare to open applications for a new cohort, we are taking a more intentional approach in engaging partners like you whose platforms align with our vision of grooming the next generation of leaders,” the statement read.
The LJLA urged partners and stakeholders to support the initiative by amplifying awareness, ensuring that more qualified candidates across Nigeria are able to access and benefit from the programme.
The leadership academy, which is backed by the Lagos State Government, is designed to equip young professionals with the skills, knowledge, and exposure required for public service and leadership roles.
Eligibility criteria released alongside the announcement show that applicants must be Nigerians with a minimum of two years’ work experience and must fall within the age bracket of 25 to 35 years.
Applicants are also required to possess at least a Bachelor’s degree or Higher National Diploma and must have completed the National Youth Service Corps programme or hold a valid exemption certificate.
Interested candidates are advised to visit www.ljla.academy for more information and to submit their applications within the stipulated timeline.
The academy expressed optimism that the programme would continue to nurture competent leaders capable of driving sustainable development and governance reforms in Nigeria.

