Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission (LGSC), Bashorun Akinwole Akinwale, has called on local government workers across the state to uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism,
He also reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to improved staff welfare, regular promotions, and prompt retirement benefits which he said is in line with Gov Oluseyi Makinde’s agenda
Speaking during a strategic meeting with Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) and Acting HLGAs from across the state in Ibadan, Wolekanle as he is foundly called emphasized that punctuality, accountability, and ethical conduct would be the foundation of the Commission’s renewed drive for local government reform.
“I want to assure all staff that promotion letters will begin to be issued before the close of business today,” he said, drawing applause from the attendees. However, he warned against using promotions as tools of intimidation and stressed that discipline must be non-negotiable across the service. He pledged to maintain open lines of communication and promised that his office would remain accessible for suggestions and grievances.
The meeting, which also served as the formal introduction of the newly constituted LGSC board, marked a pivotal moment in the state’s quest to enhance the operational efficiency of its local government system.
In his opening remarks, Deacon Taiwo Olafimihan Adewale, the Commission’s Permanent Secretary, praised the new board’s proactive stance and hailed the Chairman’s open-door policy. He, however, cautioned staff against acts of indiscipline, warning that the Commission would take a firm stance on issues affecting professionalism and accountability.
Board members also used the occasion to rally support for the Commission’s new direction. Notable among them was Mrs Nike Arewa, who called for strong collaboration between zonal Permanent Secretaries and LG officials. She urged staff to embrace the worker-friendly policies of Governor Seyi Makinde and contribute to repositioning local government administration.
Hon. Tope Yusuf emphasized the need for synergy between the political class and civil service, describing such cooperation as critical to grassroots development. Alhaji Taiwo Oke added that staff must see themselves as ambassadors of progress, reflecting the government’s commitment to better welfare for workers.
Responding to the new vision, HLGAs and Acting HLGAs present pledged their full support for the Commission’s initiatives, expressing readiness to align with the reform agenda.
Looking ahead, the LGSC Chairman announced plans to embark on a statewide tour of Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). The visit, he said, would strengthen oversight, deepen stakeholder relationships, and ensure service delivery at the grassroots.
He concluded the session with a call for responsible conduct, warning that any actions capable of tarnishing the image of the service would not be condoned. Akinwale also proposed regular consultative meetings to ensure sustained engagement and transparency within the local government structure.
The event signaled a renewed commitment to professionalism, efficiency, and inclusive leadership in Oyo State’s local government administration.
