If you are an aspiring political leader in Nigeria looking to deepen your knowledge, expand your network, and gain hands-on experience in political leadership, the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF) 2025 is the perfect opportunity for you. The Bridge Leadership Foundation invites applications for this fully funded, non-partisan leadership development program designed to equip young Nigerians with the skills and mentorship needed to navigate the political landscape at the local, regional, and national levels.
Through a combination of expert-led training, mentorship, and immersive experiences, the EPLF provides fellows with direct access to political stakeholders and thought leaders. Successful applicants will participate in a rigorous year-long program, including a residential Bootcamp, where they will network with decision-makers, refine their leadership skills, and develop impactful civic-driven projects.
Fellowship Summary
Location: Nigeria
Host Institution: The Bridge Leadership Foundation
Fellowship Type: Leadership development & Capacity-Building
Funding: Fully funded (includes local air travel, accommodation, meals, and training costs)
Duration: One year
Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
Start Date: To be announced
Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship Overview
The Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship is a capacity-building initiative aimed at equipping young Nigerians with the knowledge, skills, and connections to thrive in political leadership. Designed for those who are already active in politics or public service, the fellowship offers an intensive learning experience covering governance, policy-making, public administration, and political strategy.
Fellows will benefit from a curriculum that integrates lectures, mentorship, hands-on political training, and networking opportunities. The program also fosters a peer-learning environment, enabling fellows to collaborate with like-minded changemakers across Nigeria.
Activities & What to Expect
Fellows will engage in a variety of activities, including:
Residential Bootcamp: A highly interactive learning experience where fellows will gain firsthand exposure to Nigeria’s political landscape.
Training & Workshops: Sessions led by experienced politicians, civil society leaders, and governance experts.
Mentorship Program: One-on-one and group mentoring with established politicians across party lines.
Capstone Project: Development and presentation of a civic-driven initiative designed to create impact in the fellow’s community.
Learning Visits: Exposure trips to key institutions, including government agencies and political offices.
Networking Opportunities: Direct engagement with policymakers, public servants, and influential figures in Nigerian politics.
Social Media Spotlight: Visibility through The Bridge Leadership Foundation’s platforms and faculty networks.
Target Audience
The Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF) is open to:
Mid-to-senior level technocrats
Civil servants
Nigerians in the diaspora interested in running for office in Nigeria
Technical staff of past or serving politicians (e.g., Special Advisers, Technical Assistants)
Political appointees (e.g., Commissioners, Executive Secretaries)
Past and current candidates for political office at any level
Grassroots activists and changemakers with a track record of community impact
Women, minorities, and other underrepresented groups committed to public service
Fellowship Coverage and Benefits
The Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF) is a fully funded fellowship that provides awardees with a comprehensive package of benefits including:
A fully funded, high-impact six-month political leadership training
Coverage of local air travel, accommodation, and meals during the residential Bootcamp (Note: Nigerians in the diaspora must cover their travel to Nigeria)
Access to an exclusive network of political and governance experts
Group mentorship with credible and experienced Nigerian politicians
The opportunity to implement a civic-driven project and collaborate on social impact initiatives
Membership in the EPLF Alumni Network, with future opportunities to serve as facilitators, ambassadors, and mentors
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the fellowship, applicants must demonstrate the following:
Be actively involved in mainstream politics in Nigeria
Have a proven track record of community service and political engagement
Demonstrate accountability, integrity, strategic thinking, and resilience
Be between 25 and 35 years old (exceptional applicants aged 36-45 may be considered)
Meet all statutory requirements to run for office at any level in Nigeria
Have no criminal record or ongoing investigations with any national or international security agency (e.g., Interpol, EFCC)
Application Procedure
To apply, candidates must submit their applications online by filling the online application form.
A completed application comprises:
1. A completed application form
2. An updated CV (maximum three pages, PDF format) detailing:
Professional experience (most recent first)
Educational background
Awards, honors, and publications (if applicable)
3. A 3-5 minute application video answering the question:
"Why should you be selected for the fellowship, and how will your vision catalyze the change Nigeria needs?"
✅ Application Tips
The application process is designed to be straightforward. Focus on authenticity and clarity in your responses.
This is not about perfect answers; the selection panel is looking for candidates with conviction, vision, and a clear understanding of Nigeria’s political landscape.
Allocate at least 20 minutes to carefully complete the application form. Once submitted, no changes can be made.
ℹ️ For inquiries, contact:
Email: eplf@thebridgeleadership.org
Phone: +234 913 144 9586
🗓️ Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
🔗 OFFICIAL CALL LINK
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