The Citadel School of Government was officially unveiled in Lagos on September 5, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to develop the next generation of leaders equipped with structured governance and public administration training. Founded by Pastor Tunde Bakare, leader of the Citadel Global Community Church, the school aims to address Nigeria’s chronic leadership challenges by providing rigorous academic and practical programs in governance, leadership, and statecraft.
The school’s launch event featured the formal induction of the pioneer class of seventy students into the Advanced Diploma in Public Leadership and Statecraft, a nine-month diploma program developed in partnership with the University of Lagos Business School (ULBS). The signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between Citadel School of Government and ULBS earlier in June 2025 laid the foundation for this innovative collaboration, blending academic excellence with hands-on governance exposure.
Pastor Bakare, who also serves as the Board Chairman of the institution, explained the vision behind the school: “This is not just an educational institution; it is a transformational project designed to raise a new breed of Nigerians who lead with integrity, competence, and a sense of service. Our goal is to plant a seed that will blossom into a forest of leaders who will govern Nigeria and beyond with righteousness and vision.” He urged the pioneer cohort to embrace the challenge, emphasizing that they had joined the frontline of national change.
The Advanced Diploma curriculum covers a diverse range of subjects, including public policy analysis, governance ethics, statecraft, conflict resolution, and leadership dynamics, featuring lectures from seasoned academics and experienced practitioners. A defining feature is its blend of classroom theory with field engagements, policy simulations, and mentorship to bridge the gap between academia and real-world governance.
Also speaking at the event, former Nigerian Minister of Education Dr. Oby Ezekwesili underscored the critical need for ethical and effective leadership in Africa. “Leadership remains the greatest obstacle to our continent’s development,” she said. “Corruption and poor governance have eroded trust and progress. Programs like this offer hope that we can equip leaders who reject greed and embody service.” Ezekwesili challenged students to uphold character and accountability beyond just academic credentials.
The institution’s partnership with ULBS, praised by Vice Chancellor Prof. Folasade Ogunsola, combines academic rigor with practical governance insights, aimed at professionalizing leadership from grassroots local governments to national institutions. Tuition fees for the pioneer cohort were heavily subsidized, with an 87.5% discount to encourage wide enrollment among emerging leaders.
This initiative comes amid broader national calls to improve governance standards and build capacity at all government tiers. It is unique in its focus on combining ethical training with practical skills, tailored to Nigeria’s complex political and institutional landscape.
In summary, the Citadel School of Government represents a groundbreaking step in leadership development for Nigeria. Through strategic academic partnerships, a well-rounded curriculum, and visionary leadership, it seeks to raise changemakers who will lead transformative governance reforms. The success of this school has the potential to influence Nigeria’s political culture profoundly and contribute to the continent’s long-term development. Next steps involve expanding enrollment, forging more governance partnerships, and engaging civil society to amplify the school’s impact.
