The Lagos State government has revealed that 30 per cent of its staff who were granted study leave abroad did not return to their positions.
The Commissioner for Establishments, Pension and Training, Mr Afolabi Ayantayo, disclosed this on Wednesday during the ongoing ministerial press briefing to commemorate the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.
The Commissioner also stated that 23,420 staff members have benefited from various training initiatives between May 2022 and December 2024.
Ayantayo remarked, “We recognise that training and capacity-building initiatives are fundamental to a vibrant and forward-thinking Public Service, and this has remained our primary focus.
“In this regard, the Ministry has consistently implemented robust training programmes as a strategic tool to bridge skills gaps and enhance the professional and adaptive competencies required in the State Public Service.
“In collaboration with leading training institutions, the Ministry has improved workforce productivity, ethical standards, and leadership capabilities at various levels of government.
“During the same period, over 120 training programmes, including in-plant and in-service training, were organised, addressing multiple levels, skill sets, and thematic areas pertinent to public sector efficiency, leadership development, and regulatory compliance. These areas include digital transformation, emotional intelligence, policy analysis, and project management.”
The Commissioner noted that establishment matters have also received focused attention, particularly in the realms of policy formulation, workforce planning, service regulations, and career progression.
He added that the Ministry continues to ensure that appointments, promotions, discipline, and records management are guided by merit, fairness, and due process.