Abuja: The Lagos State Government has announced its commitment to continue providing global opportunities for youth through leadership development and international exposure initiatives. Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, made this announcement during a media briefing at the ministry’s conference hall.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the briefing detailed the 2026 Ibile Youth Academy Study Tour to Singapore. This fully sponsored international leadership and cultural immersion programme is organised by the Lagos State Government as a reward for outstanding youth ambassadors and transformational leaders who excel in the academy’s multi-stage leadership boot camps. Established in 2017, the programme aims to enhance leadership skills and provide global exposure.
Ogunlende emphasized that participant selection for the programme is transparent and merit-based. The study tour is scheduled to take place from July 6 to July 15, 2026. He stated that the initiative underscores the Lagos State Government’s commitment to nurturing youth leadership development and global exposure. The Ibile Youth Academy builds upon previous efforts like the Ambassadors Programme to mentor and empower young leaders across Lagos State’s five divisions.
Mrs. Oluwatoyin Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, highlighted the study tour as a strategic investment designed to cultivate visionary and globally competitive young leaders. She stressed the importance of exposing young leaders to international best practices and innovative governance models to prepare them for meaningful societal contributions.
Past study tours included destinations like Barcelona, Spain, in 2022; Finland in 2024; and Canada in 2025, focusing on education, innovation, and development. The state aims to solidify its role as Africa’s leading economic and cultural hub through these initiatives.
Mr. Julius Ilori, Principal Partner and a pioneer member of the initiative, shared that the programme has positively transformed many beneficiaries, including himself. He noted that participants are prepared to engage with international experts in Singapore and will return with enhanced knowledge and networks to benefit Lagos State.
Participants expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for the opportunity, pledging to become exceptional leaders. Mr. Adetomiwa Banjo, Lagos State Apex Youth Ambassador, thanked Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his support and promised to maximize the learning opportunities during the tour.
Mr. Biliamin Oba, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Government on Social Development, and Mr. Idris Saheed, another pioneer member, encouraged participants to document their experiences, maintain good conduct, and build networks with international counterparts during the programme.