At the Lead the Future Conference 2024, Mr. Bode Agoro, the Head of Service of the Lagos State Government, emphasized the critical role of a skilled workforce in driving development within the public sector. Highlighting the conference’s theme, ‘Strategic Positioning: Leadership and Competitiveness in an Era of Disruption,’ Agoro discussed the ongoing efforts of Lagos State to create a highly skilled, innovative, and agile workforce that can navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing global environment. His insights were delivered through Mrs. Sunkanmi Oyegbola, the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Head of Service, who shed light on the government’s commitment to training, collaboration, and leadership development as foundational elements of their strategy.
Agoro reiterated the notion that innovation is imperative for progress, warning against stagnation which he noted can lead to obsolescence. He pointed out that significant investments are being made in the government’s Learning Management System to enhance the skill sets of public servants both locally and internationally. This initiative is aimed at fostering an environment of continuous learning and improvement, enabling government employees to keep pace with global advancements. Additionally, Agoro highlighted the pivotal role of organizations like the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, which play an essential role in ensuring that government personnel remain competitive across various sectors.
One of Agoro’s key points was the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in enhancing workforce development. He cited successful partnerships, such as the one with Samsung to create a training center for young engineers, which exemplifies how meaningful collaborations can facilitate skill acquisition and growth. He emphasized the value of exchange programs that allow public sector employees to gain insights from private sector practices and vice versa, fostering a deeper understanding of different operational methodologies and promoting efficiency through collective learning.
Agoro also spoke about the implementation of several initiatives designed to cultivate leadership within the state’s workforce. The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, which trains promising young Nigerians, was highlighted as a crucial element of this strategy, along with other academies that focus on youth employability and entrepreneurship. This investment in developing leadership skills from an early age aims to build resilient governance structures that can respond proactively to emerging challenges and contribute sustainably to the community’s growth.
The commitment to investing in the youth was further illustrated through various programs aimed at promoting self-sustainability and food security, such as the Young Farmers Club. Agoro explained that educating youth in agriculture not only empowers them to become future food producers but also instills a sense of responsibility towards maintaining food security in the region. By integrating agriculture into the educational framework, the government seeks to inspire a new generation of innovators and producers who can contribute to the state’s economic resilience.
Looking ahead, Agoro stressed the necessity of mentoring and coaching within public service structures. He articulated a vision of nurturing leaders who are adaptive, innovative, and capable of challenging conventional approaches. This commitment to leadership development, agility, and continuous improvement underscores Lagos State’s determination to build a workforce that is well-equipped to face future challenges. Agoro concluded by asserting that the journey towards excellence in workforce development is ongoing, requiring collaboration among serving and retired officers and the private sector to create a robust and future-ready workforce for Lagos.
