Oyekan-Ismaila urges tourism, culture ministry staff to uphold dedication and excellence

Oyekan-Ismaila urges tourism, culture ministry staff to uphold dedication and excellence

The newly deployed Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Adebopo Oyekan-Ismaila, has called on management and staff of the Ministry to remain committed, focused, and adhere strictly to established rules and regulations in the discharge of their duties.

Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila made the call during her official welcome reception held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja. She was warmly received by the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, alongside management staff, officers, and representatives from the Ministry’s agencies.

In her address, Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila expressed deep gratitude to God and the Lagos State Government for the opportunity to serve, describing her deployment as divinely ordained.

“It is only the will of God Almighty that prevails. I never lobbied for this office, but I accept the challenge wholeheartedly and with gratitude. I see this as another opportunity to contribute to the growth and progress of Lagos State,” she said.

She emphasised the importance of teamwork, unity, and dedication as key ingredients for success, pledging to operate an open-door policy that encourages collaboration and innovation.

“My doors are always open for constructive discussions. We are one family, and together, we must work towards excellence. I don’t settle for 70%; our target is always 100%. Let us move forward in peace, harmony, and with the fear of God,” she added.

Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila, a seasoned administrator with extensive experience across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the Lagos State Public Service, reiterated her commitment to fostering efficiency, inclusivity, and collaboration within the Ministry.

In his remarks, the outgoing Permanent Secretary, Mr. Bajulaiye, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve, describing Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila’s appointment as a blessing to the Ministry.

“We are fortunate to have in our midst a seasoned administrator and a daughter of the soil. She has been an integral part of the Lagos State Public Service, most recently at the Teaching Service Commission. I am confident she will bring her wealth of experience, knowledge, and leadership to bear in this new role,” he said.

He urged members of staff to extend the same level of support and cooperation he enjoyed during his tenure to his successor—“and even multiply it by two,” he added jokingly.

The event was attended by Directors from the Lagos State Teaching Service Commission who accompanied the new Permanent Secretary, while the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture Troupe thrilled guests with vibrant cultural performances.