The Lagos State Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development has launched a four-day high-level management retreat in Lekki, signalling renewed energy and purpose in delivering people-centered public service.
EpeInsights reports that the retreat held at the Orchid Hotel, the retreat anchored on the theme “Driving Transformation for Responsive Public Service” brings together top civil servants, seasoned facilitators, and policy experts.
The objective is clear: to retool the Ministry’s leadership and operations in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda and ensure meaningful impact in rural communities across Lagos.
Opening the retreat, the Commissioner, Mr. Bolaji Kayode Robert, made an impassioned call for a shift in mindset. “This is not just another policy retreat. It’s a rallying cry to reimagine how we serve,” he said.
“Public service isn’t about titles or bureaucracy—it’s about people. We must deliver with urgency, empathy, and impact.”
He stressed that for many rural dwellers, the Ministry is often their closest link to government. “We are the face of government in hard-to-reach areas. That bridge between policy and people must be strong, honest, and functional.”
The retreat serves not only as a learning experience but also a platform to rekindle leadership purpose and reinforce community-driven service delivery.
Attendees are exploring practical strategies to drive transformation through better communication, accountability, and innovation in public service.
Chairman of the House Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, Honourable Sanni Okanlawon, praised the Ministry’s foresight, stating that such initiatives are key to deepening the impact of the Governor’s development blueprint at the local level.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, emphasized that transformation must begin from within.
“We can’t deliver change until we embrace it personally,” he said.
“Let this retreat mark a new chapter of courage, values-based leadership, and visible results.”
In her welcome address, Ms. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, reminded participants of their strategic role in Lagos’ development ecosystem.
“From upholding traditional institutions to advancing rural infrastructure, our duty is to evolve with the needs of the communities we serve,” she noted.
She called for increased use of technology, improved work culture and a stronger sense of accountability across departments.
The retreat featured a rich lineup of resource persons and thought leaders, including Dr. Abiodun Muritala, Lagos State Accountant-General; leadership strategist Dr. Nkechi Iwuala; and HR expert Kunbi Adeoti, among others.
Participants engaged in workshops focused on conflict resolution, team dynamics, performance management, and modern public service ethics.
Also in attendance were key government functionaries such as Ms. Abosede George, Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Service Commission; Ms. Rukayat Sanusi from the Debt Management Office; and Mr. Musa Obafemi Ogunlana, Auditor-General for Local Government, who all lent their voices to the transformation conversation.
As the retreat progresses, it is clear that the Ministry is not just ticking a box, it is laying the foundation for a reinvigorated public service that puts people, especially at the grassroots, at the heart of governance.
