Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has reiterated his administration’s willingness to collaborate with professional bodies and associations in his quest to build Greater Lagos.
He stated this on Tuesday at the Investiture of Mrs. Funmi Ekundayo as the first female and 29th President & Chairman of Council, Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN).
Mr. Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, noted that the collaboration was part of a commitment to “build the State of our collective desire through the successful attainment of the goals embedded in our T.H.E.M.E.S PLUS agenda.
According to him, “The T.H.E.M.E.S PLUS agenda is designed to transform Lagos State into a more modern and sustainable metropolis, with a focus on health and environment, transportation and traffic management, education and technology, entertainment and tourism, security and governance, and sustainable social investment”.
He explained that the PLUS represents the incorporation of an intensified focus on social inclusion, gender equality, and youth development to ensure Lagos State remains a beacon of hope that provides a conducive environment for everyone to achieve their full potential.
Lagos State is noted for gender equality as evidenced in the appointment of women under Sanwo-Olu’s administration. Currently, over 50 per cent of the Body of Permanent Secretaries are women while most of the Agencies of Government are headed by women who are proving their competencies across the state.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said Ekundayo’s outstanding achievements and impeccable track record as well as unwavering commitment, humility and exceptional skills qualified her for the new role. He congratulated and enjoined Mrs. Ekundayo and her executive to deepen their relevance in the ongoing efforts to build a sustainable economy that works for all.
The Keynote Speaker/Managing Director and CEO of LOTUS Merchant Bank, Mrs. Kafilat Araoye said women’s participation in the workplace has grown over time, stressing the need for gender balance and proper composition in private and public establishments.
The Chairman of the occasion and Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Monetary Policies, Mr. Olawale Edun and other dignitaries, including the Arole Oduduwa, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and Chief (Mrs.) Nike Akande extolled the pedigree of Mrs. Ekundayo.
The highlight of the ceremony was the transfer of the insignia of the Office to Ekundayo by the immediate Past President, Mr. Taiwo Owokalade.
