The remarkable rise of Lagos Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, has continued to attract state-wide attention, with many commentators now openly describing him as one of the most prominent figures increasingly viewed as governorship material ahead of the next political cycle in Lagos State.
Over the past year, Ogunlende’s ministry has delivered some of the most extensive youth development programmes in recent state history, empowering more than 85,000 young Lagosians through digital, vocational, leadership, and entrepreneurial initiatives.
The LAG-UP Project, a flagship tech initiative run in partnership with private-sector organisations, has trained tens of thousands of youths across 84 digital and creative skill categories. More than 23,000 have completed certifications, strengthening the state’s digital workforce.
Beyond technology, over 4,000 young people including more than 3,200 women have been equipped with vocational skills in tailoring, carpentry, shoemaking, tiling, and software development, forming a diverse talent pipeline for Lagos’ evolving economy.
Leadership Presence Strengthens His Political Profile
Ogunlende’s work in leadership training has further expanded his profile. The IBILE Youth Academy recently graduated over 500 young leaders, while the Amplifier Business Clinic disbursed ₦10 million in grants to emerging entrepreneurs. At the 2025 Youth Leadership Convention, he personally awarded a ₦1 million grant to a standout young innovator, earning praise for his hands-on, youth-focused approach.
These consistent, results-driven interventions have led political commentators, civil society groups, and youth organisations to increasingly mention Ogunlende among the names believed to possess the administrative depth, broad appeal, and leadership qualities associated with viable governorship contenders in Lagos.
Political observers highlight his governance style, rooted in accessibility, innovation, and grassroots engagement as characteristics often admired in potential state executives.
Social Intervention Expands His Appeal
The Commissioner has also intensified efforts on youth mental health and social protection. His expansion of the Lagos Kicks Against Drug Abuse (LASKADA) programme has strengthened partnerships with communities and NGOs to combat drug abuse and youth suicide.
These initiatives, described by many analysts, resonate with a state seeking leaders able to balance empathy with strategic action.
In Badagry, the Ministry’s outreach distributed food palliatives to more than 15,000 vulnerable residents, reinforcing Ogunlende’s reputation for blending policy execution with human compassion.
A Leadership Trajectory Drawing Widespread Attention
As Lagos continues to position youth development and innovation at the centre of its long-term agenda, many across the state now view Ogunlende’s track record as reflective of a leader capable of managing broader governance responsibilities. His growing visibility, administrative competence, and ability to execute large-scale programmes have made him a recurring name in ongoing discussions about the future leadership of Lagos State.
Stakeholders say that regardless of political outcomes, the Commissioner’s achievements have already placed him firmly among the influential voices shaping the next chapter of Lagos’ development journey.
