In a move aimed at bolstering productivity and fostering innovation among its workforce, the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development held a two-day staff retreat at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa, Ikeja.
EpeInsights reports that the retreat, themed “Driving Transformation for Effective and Responsive Public Service: Commitment to Excellence, Accountability and Innovation in the Service to the People,” brought together key officers of the Ministry for a comprehensive capacity-building programme in alignment with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the Lagos State Government.
Declaring the retreat open, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, highlighted the significance of the training as a platform to realign staff with emerging trends in governance and service delivery.
She stressed the importance of continuous learning, urging participants to embrace the experience with open minds.
“This retreat is not just about improving how we work,” Bolarinwa noted, “it’s also about enhancing our personal growth, emotional intelligence, and ability to innovate.”
Delivering the keynote presentation, the lead facilitator, Mr. Ayo Muritala, challenged attendees with his session titled “Why Go to the Moon: How to Lead from Behind.”
Muritala emphasized the importance of creativity, initiative, and influence at all levels of public service, encouraging officers to take ownership of their roles regardless of rank.
He also led discussions on emotional intelligence, underscoring its relevance in conflict resolution, interpersonal communication, and fostering a supportive work environment.
The retreat featured a variety of interactive sessions, including practical modules on team dynamics, stress management, and workplace wellness.
A special health talk focused on preventive care and managing stress-related challenges often encountered in public service roles.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the attendees, Mrs. Olayinka Philips praised the Ministry’s leadership for organising the timely initiative.
“This retreat has been eye-opening and empowering. We’re going back not just as better officers, but as more rounded individuals,” she said.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to continuous staff development as a cornerstone of improved governance, promising more capacity-building opportunities in the future.
