Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has emphasised the increasing complexity of governance in today’s world and the need for a civil service that is innovative, responsive, and forward-thinking.

  He said this, yesterday, at 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.

   Hamzat said: “Civil servants are no longer bystanders. You are at the frontline of public policy and service delivery. This initiative empowers you to lead with innovation, adaptability and purpose.”

  Hamzat was represented by the Chairman, Civil Service Commission, Mrs Boladele Dapo-Thomas, at the ceremony held at the Public Service Staff Development Centre (PSSDC), Magodo.

  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.

According to him, 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 drew inspiration from previous reform efforts, such as Project Wheel, the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, and the Office of Transformation, Creativity and Innovation (OTCI), but raised the bar with a curriculum anchored in real-world leadership challenges.

  The 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 institutionalising excellence in public service.

  In his goodwill message, the Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro, described the programme as a “major leap” in Lagos State’s ongoing civil service reforms.

  In his closing remarks, 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.”