Protocol,

Today, a new addition has just been made to the Body of Permanent Secretaries in Lagos State with the swearing-in of Mrs.  Fiyinfoluwa Adenike Ogunbanke.  This now brings to 38, the number of substantive Directors that had been elevated to the position of Permanent Secretary in the past two years.

It is always a thing of joy to be elevated to a position of honour especially that of a Permanent Secretary in Lagos State.  I know this much because I had experienced the joy of this occasion some years back.

I am therefore pleased to congratulate Mrs. Ogunbanke on her well-deserved elevation.  I have no doubt that she will bring to bear on the Public Service and this administration, her widely acknowledged sterling qualities of hardwork, dedication and professionalism.  These are some of the qualities that we need to embrace and apply to government business, which is in essence the people’s business.

Presently, we have a vision which is being implemented through the various ongoing reforms in critical sectors including transportation, education, environment, justice delivery system and tourism.  The Public Service has a duty to ensure that these reforms are diligently implemented in a way that the desired intention is achieved.

I am satisfied with the progress we have made so far.  As it is said, the only room that is never closed is the room of improvement.  I will therefore continue to demand improved performance particularly from the top echelon of the Public Service with regard to the pace at which we currently operate.

You must continue to show leadership and direction for others to follow.  In this way, we will sustain our unity of purpose and focus towards delivering the dividends of good governance to all our people.

Once again, I congratulate Mrs. Ogunbanke, her family and friends with whom she is sharing the joy of this moment.

Thank you and God bless you all.

Itesiwaju Ipinle Eko, lo Je wa logun!!!