Always be at your best, Lagos deputy gov charges public servants

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has urged public servants in the state to be innovative and always strive for excellence in discharging their duties to enhance service delivery.

Hamzat made this call while speaking at the Annual Staff Retreat of the Office of the Deputy Governor, themed “The Role of Employees in the Turnaround Process of 21st Century Public Services,” held at the Novatel Hotel, Lekki. He emphasized that both the state and the country would prosper if every public service officer, regardless of status, performed their duties effectively and efficiently.

“It’s important that, in whatever role we find ourselves, we must do our best. If everyone takes responsibility for their roles and performs their duties well, this country will thrive. As a people, we need to treat others well. We must understand that every action we take has consequences—karma is real,” he said.

The deputy governor added that fulfilling their roles as employees and as Nigerians, while treating each other with kindness and respect, is essential for fostering national development and growth. He stressed that prioritizing mutual respect creates a foundation for positive relationships, harmony, and a culture of empathy and understanding.

Speaking further, he highlighted the rapid advancements in science and technology, citing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Artificial Neural Intelligence (ANI) as examples. He emphasized the importance of Nigerians understanding the future implications of these innovations for the sake of upcoming generations.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Mobolaji Daba, expressed gratitude to the deputy governor for approving funds to organize the retreat.

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She noted that the retreat provided a platform for staff members to discuss, share experiences, and learn new techniques to enhance service delivery. She added that the event also allowed employees to address issues affecting their well-being.

“We need to provide feedback and insights to the government, be more efficient and effective, and communicate better. I can confidently say, Sir, that we are more informed now than we were before attending this lecture,” she said.

The Guest Lecturer, Mr. Kehinde Yusuf, who also serves as the Director of Career Management at the Lagos State Civil Service Commission, noted that public service has undergone a significant transformation, transitioning from the analog era to the digital age—marked by increased efficiency, innovation, and improved service delivery.

He, therefore, urged participants to enhance their skills and uphold professionalism in line with 21st-century public service standards.