The Head of Service, Lagos State, Mr. Bode Agoro, has reiterated the state government’s unwavering dedication to human capital development and industrial harmony, describing a motivated workforce as the cornerstone of sustainable governance and economic growth.

Speaking at the opening of the 2026 Lagos State Public Service Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) meeting at the State Treasury Office (STO) Resource Centre, Agoro emphasised that the reconvening of the council reflects a shared commitment to accountability and the strengthening of established processes.

In his keynote address, the Head of Service highlighted that the well-being of public servants is directly linked to the state’s overall institutional effectiveness.

He reassured labour leaders that the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu remains committed to promoting staff welfare within the limits of available resources.

“A resilient public service is one that is anchored on collaboration, accountability, and a shared sense of purpose,” Agoro stated, urging all participants to engage in deliberations that achieve practical.

xand sustainable outcomes.

Echoing this sentiment, the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, described the relationship between the government and trade unions as a “partnership” rather than a “battleground.” He noted that the ministry is proactively addressing the pressures of the current economic climate through continuous dialogue and aggressive capacity building.

The commissioner added: “The ‘Greater Lagos’ we are building is only possible through the hands and minds of the dedicated men and women who serve in our Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.”

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Establishments and Training, Mrs. Olubusola Abidakun, who Chaired the Council, expressed her delight at the reconvening of the meeting adding that it is always better to jaw-jaw.

Abidakun reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to fostering a conducive work environment, stating that the resolutions reached during this council meeting would further strengthen government-labour relations and support the effective implementation of the state’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.

While commending Sanwo-Olu for his intentional effort at sustaining industrial harmony, the chairman, Joint Negotiating Council, Michael Domingo, added that the council meeting was not just a formality but an opportunity to address the challenges facing the workforce, noting that workers welfare remain key

The event was attended by the Body of Permanent Secretaries and various Trade Union leaders.

The government representatives commended the maturity of the union leadership for choosing the path of diplomacy and dialogue, which has ensured that Lagos remains a beacon of stability and industrial peace in the federation.

The JNC meeting serves as the primary structured framework for addressing workforce issues in Lagos State, ensuring that the voices of public servants are heard while maintaining the state’s fiscal sustainability.