LOCAL GOVERNMENT SERVICE COMMISSION CONCLUDES ANNUAL MONITORING TOUR

The Lagos State Local Government Service Commission (LGSC) has completed its Monitoring Tour across the 57 Local Governments (LGs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos State. This significant annual exercise, which started on May 14, 2024, was concluded recently. 

The Chairman of LGSC, Hon. Kamal Ayinde Bayewu disclosed that the Monitoring Tour is a vital initiative of the Commission aimed at assessing the performance and challenges of each LG/LCDA with particular emphasis on enhancing staff welfare, raising awareness about mental health and ensuring that all members of staff are updated on important Commission and Establishment matters. 

Hon. Kamal Ayinde Bayewu, during the tour, addressed Members of Staff in each Local Government/Local Council Development Area, highlighting the remarkable infrastructural developments being carried out in many areas. He commended them for their dedication and hard work in improving their communities and urged them to continue on this path while striving for even greater achievements.

He also announced the impending deployment of staff across the Unified Local Councils, noting that the deployment process will be guided by new criteria, designed to align more closely with the career development needs of officers and encouraged everyone to be adaptable and embrace the opportunity to acquire new skills and knowledge, regardless of where they are posted. 

Bayewu expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the tour, noting that the feedback received would be instrumental in shaping future policies and initiatives. He also mentioned that the tour will provide the Commission with valuable insights that will guide their efforts to improve service delivery across Lagos State, affirming the Commission’s commitment in addressing the challenges identified and to support members of staff in every way possible.  

Throughout the tour, the Local Government Service Commission’s leadership took the time to interact directly with staff members, listening to their concerns and suggestions. The engagement allowed the Commission to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by various Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas, as well as the needs and aspirations of the staff.

In remarks, Permanent Secretary of the Commission, Mrs. Abosede George highlighted the successful completion of the recent Y2024 promotion exercise and the introduction of virtual training sessions as part of the Revised Structure Training Programme. She encouraged all staff to take advantage of the free online courses available to enhance their skills and stay competitive in their careers.

Mrs. George also took the opportunity to speak on the proper procedures for retirement and exiting the civil service, stressing the importance of submitting all necessary documents and adhering to procedures to ensure a smooth transition out of service to avoid any complications that could affect or delay the payment of entitlements or benefits.

Speaking further, she emphasised the importance of maintaining good mental health, imploring the staff to seek support when needed because mental health is crucial, not just for the well-being of the individual but for overall productivity and effectiveness at work. The PS also advised them that, if they are faced with challenges, they should not hesitate to reach out to management or seek professional help because keeping issues bottled up can lead to depression or more serious health problems. 

The Permanent Secretary, Office of Local Government Establishment and Training, Mrs. Bibilomo Olushekun spoke on the training of members of staff who have been stagnated on Grade Level 07. She outlined the ongoing training initiatives at the Public Service Staff Development Centre, Magodo, aimed at advancing their careers. 

Mrs. Olushekun mentioned that the number of trainees sponsored for the programme has been increased from two to three in each Local Government/Local Council Development Area as part of the commitment to ensuring that all staff have opportunities for growth and career progression. 

She also spoke on the importance of recognising and celebrating the contributions of members of staff when they retire as it is a significant milestone in one’s career, noting that it is important that retirees are honoured and celebrated because they have dedicated many years of service to the public as such recognition not only boosts morale but also serves as an inspiration to others.