The Lagos State Government has disclosed that 30 percent of its civil servants who were sponsored for training abroad failed to return to the country upon completion of their programmes.
The revelation was made on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, during a ministerial press briefing to mark the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.
Ayantayo explained that the state government consistently invests in human capacity development through international training programmes for its workforce. However, when asked about staff compliance in returning from these programmes, the Commissioner expressed concern, stating that while 70 percent returned, 30 percent remained abroad.
“A total of 23,420 staff members benefitted from various training interventions between May 2022 and December 2024. In the same period, over 185 training programmes were conducted across various cadres, skill levels, and thematic areas, all aimed at improving public sector efficiency, leadership development, and regulatory compliance,” he stated.
He further disclosed that around 8,000 staff from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) were granted study leave over the past three years to upgrade their professional competencies.
Ayantayo also highlighted the state government’s implementation of a N35,000 wage award to enhance the welfare of workers, as part of the ministry’s achievements under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership.
On healthcare interventions, the Commissioner noted the disbursement of the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), the Rural Allowance for Primary Healthcare Workers, bonuses, and other incentives for staff at the Lagos State College of Medicine.
However, he did not disclose the severance allowances paid to political office holders whose tenures had expired.