The Lagos State Public Service Staff Development Centre (PSSDC) celebrated the graduation of 135 participants from the Y2023 Certificate Course in Local Government Administration. The ceremony, held at the PSSDC in Magodo, marked the end of a rigorous nine-month program aimed at equipping public servants with the necessary knowledge and skills for effective service delivery at the local government level.
In his closing remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for the Ministry of Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, commended the graduates for their dedication and perseverance. He highlighted the critical role that local government staff play in shaping the lives of citizens and ensuring efficient administration. Ayantayo emphasized that the Lagos State government’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of its public servants aligns with the T.H.E.M.E.S+ development agenda under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. He urged the graduates to continuously improve their skills to make positive impacts within the local government service.
Mr. Bamidele Balogun, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Establishments and Training, congratulated the graduates and praised the collaborative efforts of the PSSDC and the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission in delivering the program. He emphasized the value of the course as a foundation for further academic and professional development.
Similarly, Mr. Adedeji Adenusi, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Local Government, Establishments, Training and Pensions, highlighted the collaboration between the PSSDC and the Local Government Service Commission, focusing on addressing career stagnation among Grade Level 7 officers. He encouraged the graduates to apply their newly acquired skills to overcome challenges within the local government and contribute to the state’s prosperity.
In his opening remarks, the Director-General of PSSDC, Mr. Adekunmilola Toluwase Adio-Moses, stressed the importance of the Certificate Course in providing advancement opportunities for Chief Clerical Officers in the Local Government Service. He noted that the program equips participants with a comprehensive skill set, including courses in English Language, Mathematics, Local Government Administration and Management, Local Government Laws, Finance and Accounts, among others. Adio-Moses also highlighted the significance of the 2023 graduating class, coinciding with PSSDC’s 30th anniversary.
Adio-Moses stated that the certificates awarded are not only symbols of achievement but also prerequisites for promotion within the local government service. They also serve as stepping stones toward the LASU-PSSDC Part-time Collaborative Diploma in Local Government Administration and Development Studies. He acknowledged the Lagos State government’s support in prioritizing staff training and development for effective service delivery.
Speaking on behalf of the participants, the Governor of the graduating set, Mr. Hazmat Abiona from Agege Local Government, expressed gratitude to the State Government and the PSSDC for the opportunity to participate in the course. He noted that the program had exposed them to various subjects that would enhance service delivery in their respective local governments.
