The Lagos State government has revealed that 30 per cent of its staff who were given study leave abroad did not return to the system.

The Commissioner for Establishments, Pension and Training, Mr Afolabi Ayantayo, disclosed this on Wednesday at the ongoing ministerial press briefing to mark the second year of the second term of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration.

The Commissioner also stated that 23420 staff members benefited from various training interventions between May 2022 and December 2024.

Ayantayo said: “We understand that training and capacity-building initiatives form the cornerstone of a vibrant and forward-looking Public Service, and this has remained our central priority.

“In this direction, the Ministry has consistently undertaken robust training programmes as a strategic tool to bridge skills gaps, enhance professional and adaptive competencies required in the State Public Service.

“In collaboration with leading training institutions, the Ministry has enhanced workforce productivity, ethical standards, and leadership capabilities at various levels of government.

“Within the same period, over 120 training programmes, including in-plant and in-service training, were organized, which cut across multiple cadres, skill levels and thematic areas relevant to public sector efficiency, leadership development and regulatory compliance. It covers areas such as digital transformation, emotional intelligence, policy analysis, and project management.”

The commissioner stated that establishment matters have also received focused attention, particularly in the areas of policy formulation, workforce planning, service regulations, and career progression.

He said the ministry continues to ensure that appointments, promotions, discipline, and records management are guided by merit, fairness, and due process.