Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships for African Changemakers

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation has long been at the forefront of supporting good governance, leadership, and capacity-building in Africa. One of its flagship programmes, the Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships, continues this legacy by training, mentoring, and empowering a new generation of leaders across the continent.

What is the Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship?

Established in 2011, the Fellowship is designed to identify outstanding African professionals who have demonstrated leadership potential and pair them with intensive, hands-on experience within top regional and international organisations. Each year, three Fellows are selected to spend 12 months embedded in an executive office of one of three host institutions:

• The African Development Bank (AfDB) in Abidjan
• The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in Addis Ababa
• The International Trade Centre (ITC) in Geneva

Fellows receive a stipend of US$100,000. During their fellowship year, they gain technical and leadership skills, directly contribute to policy or research, and have the unique experience of being mentored by heads of their host institutions.

Who Should Apply — Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Ibrahim Leadership Fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a national of an African country
• Have earned a Master’s degree
• Possess a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience
• Be under age 40, or age 45 if female with children
• Meet any additional criteria set by the specific host institution

These criteria ensure that Fellows are already experienced, capable of making meaningful contributions, and ready for high-level leadership challenges.

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What Fellows Gain

The Fellowship offers substantial benefits:

• High-level exposure: Working in executive offices gives Fellows direct insight into policy formulation, strategic decision-making, and regional/international diplomacy.
• Leadership development: Fellows acquire skills not just in their technical field, but also in leadership, mentoring, and navigating complex institutional environments.
• Mentorship: Close guidance from senior leaders ensures growth, accountability, and a deeper understanding of governance issues.
• Integration into Now Generation Network (NGN): Fellows become part of the wider network of changemakers collaborating on Africa’s development.

Why it matters for Africans — especially Nigerians

The Ibrahim Fellowship is especially important in today’s leadership landscape:

• It closes gaps between academia and actual leadership roles, giving professionals with track records the chance to make an impact.
• For Nigerians seeking leadership in public service, policy, international development, or trade, this program offers visibility, credibility, and invaluable connections.
• It accelerates learning in real-world governance, economics, and trade challenges—skills that are in high demand at home and abroad.

Application Period & Process

• Applications for the 2026 Fellowship are now open.
• Applicants follow the process defined in partnership with the host institutions (AfDB, ECA, or ITC).
• Short-listing typically involves assessment of professional experience, leadership potential, academic credentials, and alignment with Africa-wide development challenges.

The Ibrahim Leadership Fellowships represent a rare chance to step into leadership. More than just a fellowship, it’s a platform: allowing skilled, experienced Africans to sharpen their influence, deepen their understanding of public and international leadership, and apply their talents in transformative ways.

For those who meet the criteria and are committed to contributing to Africa’s progress, this could be the defining opportunity of your leadership journey.

APPLY FOR THE IBRAHIM LEADERSHIP FELLOWSHIPS