A beneficiary of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA), Mr. Kehinde Lawal, has presented his “Best Digital Representation” award to the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila.
Eko Hot News reports that Lawal presented the honour to Oyekan-Ismaila in appreciation of her mentorship, guidance and support during his fellowship at the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy.
The presentation was held at the Permanent Secretary’s office in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.
Lawal is a public servant and teacher at Government Senior College, Agege, under the Lagos State Teaching Service Commission.
During his participation in the LJLA fellowship programme, he was mentored by Oyekan-Ismaila, whose guidance contributed to his experience and professional development.
Speaking on the presentation, Lawal described the award as a gesture of appreciation for the Permanent Secretary’s encouragement and support throughout his fellowship journey.
He noted that her mentorship provided valuable guidance as he navigated the leadership development programme and gained new perspectives on public service.
The “Best Digital Representation” award, dated September 4, 2026, recognised Lawal’s creativity, commitment and effective digital representation of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy.
His digital efforts helped promote the Academy and its activities across various digital platforms.
The recognition also highlights the growing importance of digital communication in promoting public-sector initiatives and reaching wider audiences.
By using digital platforms effectively, public institutions and leadership programmes can communicate their activities while creating greater awareness among citizens.
Receiving the honour, Oyekan-Ismaila congratulated Lawal on his achievement and praised his creativity and dedication.
She described the recognition as evidence of his commitment to excellence and encouraged him to maintain the same level of dedication in his professional journey.
The Permanent Secretary urged Lawal to continue developing his skills and applying them responsibly in his workplace and wider community.
She also encouraged him to use his abilities to promote positive narratives and contribute meaningfully to public service.
According to her, young professionals have an important role to play in strengthening public institutions through creativity, innovation and responsible leadership.
Oyekan-Ismaila further stressed the value of mentorship in preparing young professionals for leadership responsibilities.
She noted that mentorship provides opportunities for younger professionals to learn from experienced individuals and develop practical leadership skills.
The Permanent Secretary encouraged young professionals to take advantage of leadership and capacity-building opportunities provided by the Lagos State Government.
She said such opportunities could help participants gain knowledge, broaden their professional outlook and prepare for greater responsibilities.
The LJLA fellowship programme is designed to expose young professionals to leadership development, public-sector administration and practical experiences that can shape their careers.
For beneficiaries like Lawal, the programme also provides opportunities to interact with experienced professionals and gain insights into effective leadership.
The recognition presented to Oyekan-Ismaila reflects the relationship that can develop between mentors and fellows during leadership development programmes.
It also demonstrates how participants can translate their fellowship experiences into practical contributions within their professional environments.
Lawal’s achievement further underscores the role of creativity and digital communication in supporting government programmes.
As digital platforms continue to influence public communication, professionals with strong digital skills can help institutions connect with broader audiences.
The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy remains a flagship leadership development initiative of the Lagos State Government.
The Academy was established to nurture young professionals and strengthen their leadership capabilities.
It also seeks to prepare participants for impactful roles across the public and private sectors.
Through its fellowship activities, the Academy provides participants with opportunities to develop leadership knowledge, professional skills and a stronger understanding of public service.
The presentation of the “Best Digital Representation” award therefore adds another dimension to the programme’s emphasis on leadership, creativity and professional development.
The honour also serves as encouragement for other fellows to make meaningful use of the skills and opportunities gained through the Academy.
For Lawal, presenting the award to his mentor was not only a recognition of his own achievement but also an appreciation of the guidance he received during his fellowship.
The gesture highlights the importance of recognising mentors whose contributions help shape the growth and development of emerging professionals.
Oyekan-Ismaila’s encouragement also reinforces the need for young public servants to continue learning, improving their skills and contributing positively to their communities.
The development of capable young professionals remains important to the future of effective public administration.
Through initiatives such as the LJLA, participants are equipped with experiences that can help them approach their responsibilities with greater confidence and purpose.
The award presentation ultimately reflects the impact of mentorship, digital creativity and leadership development in strengthening professional growth.
It also highlights the importance of using acquired skills to support public-sector initiatives and create value for society.
