In a strategic move to strengthen public sector efficiency and leadership, the Lagos State Government has unveiled the Public Service Accelerator Programme (PSAP), a transformative initiative designed to equip mid-level civil servants with cutting-edge leadership skills and adaptive governance capabilities.
The programme was formally launched by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, who was represented by the Chairman, Civil Service Commission, Mrs. Boladele Dapo-Thomas, at a high-profile ceremony held at the Public Service Staff Development Centre (PSSDC), Magodo.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Hamzat described the initiative as a critical investment in human capital development, which aligned with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda. He emphasized the increasing complexity of governance in today’s world and the need for a civil service that is innovative, responsive, and forward-thinking.
“Civil servants are no longer bystanders,” the Deputy Governor said. “You are at the frontline of public policy and service delivery. This initiative empowers you to lead with innovation, adaptability and purpose.”
Dr. Hamzat noted that the accelerated learning model at the heart of the PSAP goes beyond technical training, aiming to fundamentally reshape mindsets toward proactive and strategic governance. He explained that the programme draws inspiration from previous reform efforts such as Project Wheel, the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, and the Office of Transformation, Creativity and Innovation (OTCI) — but raises the bar with a curriculum anchored in real-world leadership challenges.
The state Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, who described the programme as the Ministry’s flagship human capital development, hailed the PSAP as a “deliberate policy intervention” aimed at institutionalizing excellence in public service.
“We are moving from rhetoric to results — from passive service delivery to strategic, future-ready leadership,” Ayantayo said. “Governance today is not just about ticking boxes, but about the speed, trust, and innovation with which we serve the people.”
In his goodwill message, the state Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, lauded the programme as a “major leap” in Lagos State’s ongoing civil service reforms. He urged the pioneer participants, drawn from Grade Levels 12 to 14, to become ambassadors of change within their respective Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
“A dynamic and anticipatory public service is the bedrock of effective governance. This programme is an investment in people — the most critical asset of any administration,” Agoro remarked.
Designed to prepare officers for the evolving demands of governance, the PSAP will deploy a hybrid learning approach combining online modules, in-person sessions, mentorship, and team-based problem-solving. The content is tailored to equip participants with practical tools for leadership, innovation, and service excellence.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Ayantayo encouraged participants to embrace the opportunity with a sense of mission:
“You are the standard bearers. Let this programme stretch your imagination, sharpen your judgment, and elevate your service. The future of governance begins with those who serve.”
A major highlight of the event was the keynote presentation by Mrs. Olubunmi Fabamwo, former Chairman of the Lagos State Civil Service Commission and Lead Consultant of Thrive Management Consulting, who served as the Theme Speaker. In a thought-provoking address, Mrs. Fabamwo emphasized the importance of visionary leadership, integrity, and emotional intelligence in public service. She urged the pioneer participants to view themselves as architects of public value and champions of transformation in their various MDAs.
“Leadership in the public service today demands more than compliance,” she said. “It requires courage, creativity, and the capacity to deliver value in the face of change.”
Mrs. Fabamwo also announced a personal initiative to recognize and reward excellence by sponsoring prizes for the best-performing candidates at the end of the programme.
