In a bid to enhance professional capacity, foster a strong service ethos and equip staff with the skills and mindset essential for effective public service, the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) has launched its 2026 Organisational Excellence Retreat, uniting team members for focused learning, engagement, and strategic alignment with the Academy’s values and performance goals.
Delivering a key session at the retreat, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, set the tone by emphasising the values that must guide public institutions and those who serve within them.
“Public service must be driven by integrity, discipline and a clear sense of purpose. When these values are absent, systems weaken. When they are upheld consistently, institutions thrive and earn public trust” he said.
Following his address, staff participated in a vision-boarding exercise, reflecting on their individual responsibilities and collective role in advancing the Academy’s mission. Addressing the team thereafter, the Executive Secretary of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy charged staff to remain steadfast in excellence and service, noting that organisational impact is sustained through people who are intentional in both conduct and delivery.
The retreat also featured an engaging session by Mrs. Folashade Adefisayo, former Commissioner for Education in Lagos State, who spoke on leadership and responsibility. She reminded staff that leadership is not confined to titles or hierarchy.
“Leadership is not about position, It is about impact and responsibility. Every role carries the opportunity to influence outcomes and shape the culture of an organisation”. She added
A major highlight of the day was a practical session on adaptive leadership facilitated by Dr. Akin Akinpelu, Chief Executive Officer of Akin Akinpelu Leadership Development. His session challenged staff to embrace change as a constant and to develop the mindset required to lead effectively in evolving environments.
He further explained that adaptive leadership requires continuous learning, self-awareness, and the courage to rethink existing systems and behaviours in response to new realities, equipping staff with tools to remain agile and responsive in their work.
The presence of the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Chief of Staff, Mr. Semiu Kadri, further underscored the importance of strong leadership, capable teams, and institutional growth within the public service.
