The Lagos State Government has approved the advancement of local government staff who hold the Diploma Certificate in Local Government Administration to Level 12, a development announced by the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Kamal Ayinde Bayewu.

The diploma programme is coordinated jointly by Lagos State University (LASU) and the Public Service Staff Development Centre (PSSDC).

Bayewu revealed this during a working visit to Somolu Local Government Area, stressing that the recognition removes barriers to career progression for local government employees.

“With this new development, no local government staff has any reason to remain stagnant,” he said. “This administration is doing everything possible to ensure that your welfare is better.”

Addressing delays often faced by retirees in receiving their benefits, Bayewu highlighted the importance of the timely submission of service documents to the Pension Office.

“We are all aware that there are service documents that should be submitted at the Pension’s Office at a stipulated time before we exit the service. Many retirees neglect this vital assignment until they retire. Let me say it loud and clear: submit all the relevant service documents before you retire,” he urged.

Bayewu also encouraged management members to focus on training their subordinates to improve the quality of officers both now and in the future.

During the visit, the Executive Chairman of Somolu Local Government was represented by the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Dele Afolabi, who received commendations for prioritising staff welfare.

Bayewu acknowledged efforts such as providing a conducive working environment, regular staff training, availability of staff buses, and payment of bonuses during festive periods.

He expressed hope that the incoming chairman would continue the work of the current chairman, Hon. Abdul-Hammed Salawu, known as ‘Dullar.’

The visit included several key officials: Commissioner representing Lagos Division, Hakeem Adisa Bamgbola; Ikeja Division member, Taofik Adaranijo; Epe Division member, Ahmed Seriki; Director of Establishment, Mrs. Olawunmi Dada, represented by PS Establishment and Training, Mrs. Bibilomo Olushekun; Director of Administration and HR Commission, Mrs. Adebola Ajayi, represented by PS Local Government Service Commission, Mrs. Abosede George; Somolu Local Government Council Manager, Mr. Peter Abiodun Babington; Director of Public Affairs, Olusegun Akinyemi; Director of Waste Management and Environmental Services Sanitarian, Hafeez Ogunbekun; Head of Budget, Planning and Statistics, Olufemi Giwa; Human Resources Officer, Mr. Muftau Oyefolu; Council Treasurer, Mr. Abayomi Odusanya; Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Mrs. Bidemi Agboola; senior management staff from the Commission and Somolu Local Government; and the NULGE Chairman, Comrade Waheed Bello.