By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG) has launched the Network of SPPG Public Leaders, a new initiative to help solve leadership problems in Africa by supporting ethical and capable public leaders.

This network connects graduates from Nigeria, Senegal, Kenya, Ghana, and Tunisia, and focuses on teamwork, mentorship, and continuous learning to improve how governments work.

During a media briefing in Abuja, SPPG’s CEO Alero Ayida-Otobo called the launch a key moment for the school.

“This network is a co-managed, lifelong leadership ecosystem designed not just to maintain connections, but to actively cultivate a community of public leaders who collaborate, learn, and grow together with the shared goal of driving systemic change in governance across Africa,” she said.

The network is only for SPPG graduates, who are trained in ethical and innovative leadership. Since 2021, 758 graduates have completed the programme across five African countries, and more are expected in the future.

One highlight of the initiative is a leadership workshop in partnership with Yale University’s International Leadership Centre (ILC). This marks the start of a larger collaboration between the two institutions.

Ayida-Otobo spoke about how powerful the network could become.

“We envision this network as a continental bloc of principled public leaders who are actively transforming Africa’s governance landscape. Over time, we believe this community will disrupt conventional politics, rebuild public institutions, and drive policies that are inclusive, ethical, and citizen-centered,” she stated.

SPPG graduates are already making an impact in climate policy, electoral reforms, and digital innovation in government. The network will offer members access to workshops, policy labs, mentorship, and career support.

Applications for the SPPG Class of 2026 are now open. The Gerrard-Olisa Ashar Foundation Scholarship is also available for eligible candidates. Ayida-Otobo encouraged anyone passionate about public service to apply.

“SPPG is a space where your passion for public service is nurtured, challenged, and expanded. If you care about Africa’s future and want to be part of a community that’s serious about doing the hard work, SPPG is for you,” she said.