IELPN Steps Up Training to Close Leadership Gaps in Nigerian Schools

By Toffa Momoh

The Institute of Educational Leadership Practitioners of Nigeria (IELPN) is expanding efforts to strengthen school leadership across the country through focused training programmes for administrators and education professionals.

At its Annual Professional Development Workshop in Lagos, held under the theme “Leading Future-Ready Education,” the institute brought together more than 200 principals, school managers, and education experts. The sessions focused on giving school leaders practical tools to run institutions amid curriculum changes, the rise of digital learning, and shifting student needs.

IELPN Registrar/CEO, Dr. Olufunmilayo Olusa, said the programme aims to build stronger leadership capacity, noting that managing schools today requires more than routine administration. “School leaders need to drive reforms that improve learning outcomes and prepare schools for new realities,” she said. “Without strong leadership, schools can’t adapt to what students face today. We want participants to leave with clear strategies for building schools that are resilient, responsive, and centered on learners.”

Keynote speaker and former Lagos State Commissioner for Education, Folashade Adefisayo, called on education managers to pursue continuous professional development. She warned that schools failing to evolve risk producing graduates unprepared for the modern workforce, adding that leadership quality directly affects teacher performance and classroom instruction.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Afolabi Lesi, Chairman of the Governing Board, urged individuals and institutions to embrace the rapid advancements in technology rather than being left behind. He emphasized that keeping pace with the modern era, particularly in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer optional but essential for relevance and growth.

Prof. Lesi noted that fears around AI displacing jobs are largely misplaced. According to him, artificial intelligence itself will not replace people in the workforce. Instead, the real risk lies with those who fail to continuously develop and update their skills. He warned that professionals who resist learning and adapting to new technologies are the ones who will ultimately sideline themselves in an increasingly competitive, tech-driven world.

Also speaking at the event, Ven. Victor Ayo Olusa, Member of the Governing Board, described the workshop as timely and relevant. He noted that it provided participants with a deeper understanding of key areas such as instructional supervision, school governance, and institutional management. According to him, the training came at a crucial time when strengthening leadership and administrative capacity in schools has become increasingly important.

IELPN said the event is part of its wider plan to professionalize educational leadership in Nigeria through ongoing training and mentorship to improve school management and learning outcomes nationwide.