The Lagos State civil service is grappling with a significant challenge: the “Japa syndrome.” This term, popularized in Nigeria, describes the increasing exodus of citizens seeking better opportunities abroad. The issue has infiltrated the civil service, with a startling 30% of employees sent abroad for training failing to return. This revelation, made by Afolabi Ayantayo, the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, during a press briefing marking the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term, has cast a shadow over the state government’s efforts to enhance its workforce through international training programs. The significant investment in these programs, aimed at improving public sector efficiency, leadership, and regulatory compliance, is now being questioned in light of this substantial attrition rate. The state government is now faced with the daunting task of reassessing its training programs and devising strategies to retain its skilled workforce.
The scale of the training initiatives undertaken by the Lagos State government underscores the importance placed on workforce development. Between May 2022 and December 2024, a substantial 23,420 staff members participated in over 185 training programs covering a wide range of skills and thematic areas relevant to public sector performance. This significant investment aimed to equip civil servants with the necessary expertise to effectively serve the public and contribute to the overall development of the state. However, the “Japa syndrome” has dealt a significant blow to these efforts, with a concerning number of trained personnel choosing to remain abroad, thereby hindering the state’s efforts to build a more competent and efficient civil service.
The loss of trained personnel raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of the state’s investment in its workforce. The 30% attrition rate represents a significant drain on resources and undermines the intended benefits of the training programs. The failure of these trained individuals to return to Lagos State raises questions about the monitoring mechanisms in place to track participants and the incentives, or lack thereof, to encourage their return. The state government now faces the challenge of not only attracting and training its workforce but also implementing strategies to retain them in the face of alluring opportunities abroad.
While the “Japa syndrome” presents a major challenge, the Lagos State government has also implemented measures to improve the welfare of its civil servants. Recognizing the impact of economic hardship, Governor Sanwo-Olu approved a N35,000 wage increase for workers. Furthermore, the state government has demonstrated its commitment to the health sector by paying the Medical Residency Training Fund and Rural Allowance for Primary Healthcare Workers. Bonuses and wage awards have also been granted to staff of the Lagos State College of Medicine. These initiatives reflect the government’s efforts to address the economic concerns of its employees and incentivize them to remain in the state’s service.
Despite these efforts, the issue of severance packages for outgoing political appointees remains unresolved. Commissioner Ayantayo declined to comment on the amount of severance allowance paid to political office holders whose tenure has expired. This lack of transparency raises questions about the financial implications of these packages and the overall management of public funds. The absence of clear information on this matter creates an opportunity for speculation and underscores the need for greater transparency in government financial dealings.
In conclusion, the Lagos State civil service is navigating a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities. The “Japa syndrome” presents a significant hurdle to workforce development, while efforts to improve worker welfare and invest in training programs demonstrate a commitment to strengthening the civil service. However, the lack of transparency regarding severance packages for political appointees raises concerns about financial accountability. Moving forward, the state government must address the “Japa syndrome” by implementing effective retention strategies, ensuring transparency in financial matters, and continuing to invest in the development of a skilled and dedicated workforce to serve the citizens of Lagos State.
