The Lagos State Government on Thursday rolled out accolades for 375 outstanding officers drawn from the 20 Local Governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), honouring them for three decades of dedicated service at the 2025 Long Service Merit Award Ceremony held at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja.
EpeInsights gathered that the event, organised by the Office of Local Government Establishments and Training (OLGE&T), marked a revival of the recognition scheme, which had been on hold for years.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Wale Musa praised the officers for their unwavering commitment, resilience and loyalty, describing them as “pillars of grassroots governance whose sacrifices have fueled the progress of Lagos State.”
Agoro noted that among the 375 honourees were 202 women and 173 men, adding that the recognition was designed to boost morale and inspire other public servants. He urged officers to remain diligent, responsible, and technologically relevant, stressing that “Lagos State will always recognise and reward hard work.”
He further applauded Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for prioritising staff welfare and providing a conducive environment for workers to thrive.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Kamal Ayinde Bayewu, described the award as “a deserved honour for the true engine room of governance.” He encouraged the recipients to rededicate themselves to service, while assuring that the Commission would sustain reforms to improve professionalism, efficiency, and career progression.
Similarly, Permanent Secretary, OLGE&T, Mrs. Bibilomo Olushekun, explained that reviving the Long Service Merit Award was necessary to ensure officers who had devoted their prime years to the state were duly appreciated. She stressed that recognition is not only a reward system but a morale booster that underscores the government’s commitment to its workforce.
The ceremony climaxed with the presentation of awards and gifts to the honourees, amid cheers from colleagues, families, and well-wishers who filled the auditorium in celebration.
With this initiative, Lagos once again affirmed its resolve to motivate its grassroots workforce, recognising them as the backbone of governance and a key driver of #AGreaterLagosRising.
