Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday charged public office holders in the state to approach leadership with service, accountability and measurable results.

Mr Sanwo-Olu gave the charge during the swearing-in of Toyin Adejimiwa as Permanent Secretary and Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa as Chairman of Agege Local Government.

The event was held at Lagos House, Ikeja.

According to Mr Sanwo-Olu, governance will be strengthened when capable individuals are entrusted with leadership responsibilities.

He said, “This is a moment for us to reinforce trust and responsibility. Governance is strengthened when we put capable people in trusted positions and when public office is seen as a platform for service.”

Mr Sanwo-Olu described the simultaneous inauguration of a permanent secretary and an elected local government chairman as a reflection of the state’s commitment to both policy continuity and grassroots governance.

Congratulating Ms Adejimiwa on her elevation, the governor said her appointment marked her entry into the highest administrative cadre of the Lagos State Public Service.

He said that it was recognition of competence, consistency and professionalism.

“Your professional journey reflects a deep commitment to institutional reform through your leadership at the Office of Transformation.

“You demonstrated that public service can be dynamic, accountable and responsive to the needs of our people,” he said.

He urged the permanent secretary to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, strict adherence to due process and a collaborative spirit across ministries, departments and agencies.

The governor stated, “As a permanent secretary, you are a custodian of standards and a mentor to the next generation of public servants. We believe you will carry this responsibility with humility and a strong sense of duty.”

Mr Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the presence of retired permanent secretaries at the event, describing them as outstanding public officers whose legacies continued to inspire the service.

On the inauguration of Mr Obasa as chairman, Mr Sanwo-Olu said local government remained the closest tier of government to the people and required visible, responsive and compassionate leadership.

“Local government is where policies meet daily realities. Your task is to deepen community development, promote social cohesion and ensure that governance is delivered fairly, transparently and equitably,” he said.

He urged the chairman to govern inclusively and avoid divisions.

“You must work with your institutions and traditional leaders. You now have the mandate to reconcile your people and bridge the divide between policy and local realities,” he said.

Mr Sanwo-Olu said that leadership in Lagos State was defined by discipline and measurable outcomes, adding that performance and dedication to duty remained central to public service advancement.

He said, “Excellence is recognised, merit is rewarded, and dedication to duty still matters in Lagos State. People will be watching, believing and expecting diligent service.”

The governor congratulated the two public officers on behalf of the government and people of Lagos State.

He expressed confidence that they would justify the trust reposed in them and contribute meaningfully to the progress of the state.

Responding, Ms Adejimiwa and Mr Obasa thanked the governor and pledged to uphold the core values of what Lagos stood for.

(NAN)