Gbajabiamila: Nigeria Must Deliberately Invest in Next Generation of Leaders

Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila has called for deliberate investment in Nigeria's next generation of leaders, emphasizing that the country's democratic future and institutional development depend on preparing young, competent, ethical and committed individuals. As founder of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI), Gbajabiamila revealed that the program has received over 7,000 applications for its latest cohort, selecting 50 fellows through a competitive process.

The LMI, established in 2022, aims to close the gap between young Nigerians' leadership potential and their limited access to practical knowledge of public institutions. Gbajabiamila, with decades of public service experience, explained that many talented young Nigerians lack access to practical training and guidance to effectively discharge public responsibilities upon assuming positions of authority.

The LMI has grown from a fellowship program to a platform with over 80 fellows currently serving across various government institutions, including the National Assembly and ministries. The program has trained 218 fellows in its first four cohorts, with the completion of the fifth cohort expanding the number to 268. Gbajabiamila urged the selected 50 fellows to approach the intensive three-week program with seriousness, discipline, curiosity and an open mind, emphasizing that their selection from thousands of applicants should make them more conscious of their responsibilities in public service.