The Lagos State Government has launched the Public Service Accelerator Programme (PSAP), a forward-thinking initiative aimed at equipping mid-level civil servants with the tools to lead, adapt and innovate in today’s fast-changing governance landscape.
EpeInsights learnt that tThe launch ceremony, held at the Public Service Staff Development Centre (PSSDC) in Magodo, marked a milestone in the state’s push to build a future-ready civil service.
Representing the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, Mrs. Boladele Dapo-Thomas, officially flagged off the programme.
According to Dr. Hamzat, PSAP isn’t just another training course — it’s a strategic investment in human capital that aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.
With governance becoming more complex, he stressed the need for civil servants who can think on their feet and lead with purpose.
“Civil servants are no longer bystanders,” he said.
“This initiative empowers you to lead with innovation, adaptability, and purpose.”
Unlike traditional workshops, the PSAP promises a dynamic, accelerated learning experience.
It draws on lessons from previous reform efforts like Project Wheel and the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, but takes things further with a curriculum rooted in real-life leadership challenges.
Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, described the PSAP as the Ministry’s flagship human capital initiative and a “deliberate policy intervention” to raise the standard of public service.
“We are moving from rhetoric to results,” he said.
“From ticking boxes to delivering with speed, trust, and innovation.”
Head of Service Mr. Bode Agoro called the programme a “major leap” in the state’s civil service reforms. He encouraged the pioneer participants civil servants in Grade Levels 12 to 14 to become role models and changemakers in their various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
“This programme is an investment in people, the most important asset of any administration,” Agoro said.
The PSAP blends online learning, face-to-face sessions, mentorship, and group problem-solving, offering participants a well-rounded toolkit for leadership and service delivery.
In her keynote address, former Chairman of the Lagos State Civil Service Commission and now Lead Consultant at Thrive Management Consulting, Mrs. Olubunmi Fabamwo, urged participants to embrace visionary leadership and emotional intelligence.
“Leadership in public service today requires more than compliance,” she said.
“It calls for courage, creativity, and a genuine commitment to delivering value.”
She also announced a personal pledge to sponsor prizes for the best-performing participants, as a way of encouraging excellence and commitment throughout the programme.
As the inaugural cohort embarks on this transformative journey, one thing is clear: Lagos is not waiting for the future of governance it’s actively shaping it.
