The Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Bopo Oyekan-Ismaila, has called on officers of the Ministry to uphold unity, truthfulness, and excellence as core values for effective service delivery and institutional growth.
Eko Hot News reports that the charge was delivered during the Ministry’s 2025 Carol Service held on Tuesday, at the Ministry’s Conference Room, where staff gathered to celebrate the season and reflect on shared responsibilities.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila commended staff members for their dedication and commitment to duty throughout the year.
She encouraged them to relate with one another as members of one family, stressing that harmony and mutual respect are essential for a productive work environment.
The Permanent Secretary cautioned officers against actions capable of creating division within the Ministry. She emphasised that honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct must guide all official engagements, warning that behaviours that undermine trust could weaken the institution.
She further urged staff to discharge their duties with professionalism, diligence, and timeliness. According to her, these qualities are fundamental to achieving the Ministry’s mandate of promoting tourism, arts, and culture as drivers of socio-economic development in Lagos State.
Mrs. Oyekan-Ismaila also offered prayers for peace, unity, and progress within the Ministry. She noted that while disunity breeds setbacks and inefficiency, collective effort and cooperation remain key to sustainable growth and organisational success.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Planning Committee for the 2025 Carol Service, Rev. (Dr.) Taiwo Richardson Allen, praised the Permanent Secretary for her exemplary leadership and consistent commitment to fostering unity and excellence among staff.
Rev. Allen described the Carol Service as more than a festive celebration, saying it provided an opportunity for reflection on shared values and responsibilities. He urged officers to continue working together in love, integrity, and mutual support to achieve the Ministry’s collective goals.
He further encouraged staff to embrace teamwork and contribute their individual talents and skills to the advancement of the Ministry. According to him, unity, dedication, and professionalism remain the pillars upon which effective public service thrives.
The Carol Service recorded a large turnout of staff and featured invited ministers, including Pastor Kehinde Akinloye of the Lagos State Public Service Christian Fellowship and Pastor Akinyemi Akinsola of Channels of Healing Waters Ministry.
Other ministers in attendance included Pastor Charles Badejo, former Coordinator of the Ministry’s Christian Fellowship, and Bro. Awobowale Martins, the current Coordinator. The programme featured carol hymns, choir renditions, prayers for the Ministry, Lagos State, and the nation.
