Preparations have officially commenced for selecting participants for the fifth cohort of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative (LMI).
During a strategic planning meeting held on Tuesday in Abuja, Rt. Hon. Henry Nwawuba, Executive Secretary of the National Assembly Library and Chairman of the LMI Selection Committee, directed deliberations on refining the program’s application, screening, and evaluation frameworks.
Nwawuba emphasized that the intake process will prioritize fairness, transparency, merit, and inclusivity. He noted that academic excellence alone will not be the sole criterion for admission.
According to him, LMI is seeking young Nigerians who demonstrate character, critical thinking, curiosity, leadership potential and a strong commitment to public service.
“Merit, fairness, transparency and inclusivity must guide the selection process. We are not simply looking for impressive academic credentials; we are looking for young people with character, critical thinking, curiosity and the potential to lead.”
He added that the committee would also prioritise candidates who demonstrate a willingness to learn, serve and contribute meaningfully to democratic governance.
“The kind of leaders we need for the future are those who are prepared to learn, to serve and to understand that leadership is fundamentally about responsibility to society.”
Nwawuba said the planning session provided an opportunity to refine the selection framework and ensure that the fifth cohort remained aligned with the broader objectives and values of the LMI.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that the process is credible and that those eventually selected truly represent the values and aspirations of the Legislative Mentorship Initiative,” he said.
He stressed that investing in young people with a sound understanding of legislative processes, democratic governance and public policy was critical to strengthening institutions and preparing responsible leaders for the future.
The Legislative Mentorship Initiative is a leadership development and mentorship programme designed to expose young people to the workings of the legislature, democratic governance, public policy and public service.
Through the programme, selected Fellows engage with experienced legislators, policymakers and other practitioners, gaining practical knowledge of legislative processes, leadership and governance.
With the selection of Cohort 5, the committee is expected to identify young Nigerians with the capacity to emerge as thoughtful, ethical, and effective leaders, contributing meaningfully to democratic governance and public service.
