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The Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF) 2026

The Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship (EPLF) is a non-partisan political leadership development programme of The Bridge Leadership Foundation (TBLF). The Fellowship is designed to identify, nurture, and prepare young Nigerians for ethical, competent, and people-centred leadership at the local, state, and national levels.

Through a structured six-month learning journey, Fellows receive leadership training, mentorship, and practical exposure to Nigeria’s political and governance ecosystem.

Programme Overview

• Duration: 6 Months

• Programme Components include:

  • Virtual leadership training sessions

  • Civic engagement and community impact activities

  • Policy and leadership assignments

  • Residential Bootcamp, Capstone Presentations & Graduation Ceremony (Abuja)

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be Nigerian and actively engaged or interested in mainstream politics

• Demonstrate leadership, service, and civic responsibility

• Have a proven track record of integrity and accountability

• Be aged 25–35 years (Applicants aged 36–45 with strong applications may be considered)

• Meet statutory requirements to run for public office in Nigeria

• Have no criminal record or ongoing investigation with any security agency

Target Audience

The Fellowship is open to:

• Mid-to-senior level technocrats

• Civil servants

• Political appointees and aides

• Past and current political candidates

• Nigerians in the Diaspora interested in Nigerian politics

• Grassroots activists and community leaders

• Women and underrepresented groups with proven community impact

Programme Benefits

• Access to a high-impact political leadership development programme

• Training by a distinguished Faculty of political leaders and experts

• Group mentorship from past and serving Nigerian political leaders

• Opportunity to design and implement a civic engagement project

• Capstone Project development and policy brief development presentation

• Membership in the EPLF Alumni Network

• Increased visibility within Nigeria’s political ecosystem

Application Process

A complete application includes:

• A completed online application form

• An up-to-date CV (PDF only, maximum of 3 pages)

• Longlisted applicants will submit a 3–5 minute video application

Video Application Question: Why should you be selected for the Emerging Political Leaders Fellowship, and how will your leadership vision help catalyse the change Nigeria needs?

Scholarship Consideration

Applicants seeking partial or full scholarships will be required to answer additional questions assessing:

• Leadership commitment and values

• Financial need

• Civic and community impact

• Alignment with the mission of EPLF

Important Information

• Application Deadline: 28 February 2026 – 11:59 PM (WAT)

• Enquiries: eplf@thebridgeleadership.org | +234 913 144 9586