The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, Abdulhafiz Toriola, has emerged the 2026 Lagos State Man of the Year Award (LASMAYA).

Speaking at the award ceremony, Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, and fellow permanent secretaries described, Toriola, an engineer, who graduated from the University of Lagos, as a role model worthy of emulation.

They also stated that the conferment as a well-deserved recognition of excellence and performance.

Agoro and other speakers made the remarks at the 14th edition of the award held at the Radio Lagos/Eko FM Marquee, Ikeja.
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The recognition, organised by the Centre for Policy Development and Political Studies, (CEPODEPS) highlighted Toriola’s long-standing dedication to public service, operational excellence, and capacity building within Lagos State’s Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
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Speaking at the event which had Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, colleagues and representatives from the Body of Permanent Secretaries, among other dignitaries, Agoro praised Toriola’s leadership across various ministries, including his transformative work in transportation and housing. 

Agoro, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Kasali Adeniran, noted that his career reflects the core values of Lagos State excellence, performance, impact, and sustainable development.

He commended Toriola’s integrity, compassion and commitment to public service, describing him as a role model as well as mentor, while urging him to see the award as a call for greater service.

​”This is a well-deserved recognition of excellence and a testimony to the visionary leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

“Toriola has been a role model, leading with empathy, integrity, and unyielding commitment to the welfare of the public,” he stated.

The Chief Organiser of the event, Dr Aderemi Aderemi said the award reflects Toriola’s exceptional leadership, trustworthiness, achievements as well as contributions to Lagos State, describing him as “a man not given to frivolity.

Other speakers ​emphasized his approachable nature and mentorship, crediting him with inspiring staff across the civil service.

Toriola was however reminded of the adage that “the reward for good work is more work,” as speakers expressed confidence in his continued contributions to the growth of Lagos State.

Receiving the medal and certificate of honour, Toriola who described the award as a privilege and a further call to service thanked the Centre for the recognition and pledged to remain committed to excellence, humanity and the growth of the civil service.