+PHOTOS: Ambode Swears In Muri-Okunola As 21th Head Of Service

Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Monday swore in Mr . Hakeem Muri -Okunola as the 21 st Head of Service .

Ambode in his remarks at the ceremony held at the Lagos House , Alausa , described the appointment as a new chapter with a high expectation to inject youthful vibrancy in the state ’s civil service .

He tasked the new HOS to adopt creative thinking and growth mindset in the discharge of his new role.

Ambode expressed strong optimism in the ability of Muri -Okunola to effectively take charge on account of his capacity, knowledge , exposure , experience and youthful energy .

He, however, urged him to lead by example and encourage accountability and professionalism in the service .

“Following the swearing in of the new Head of Service , a new chapter has just been opened in the history of the Lagos State Public Service .

“It is a new chapter with high expectations for the injection of new energy and vibrancy that will move our Public Service to new heights .

“As the number one Civil Servant in Lagos State , you must demonstrate leadership and lead by example for others , including the Body of Permanent Secretaries , to follow .

“You have a responsibility to provide direction and encourage accountability , transparency, professionalism and high sense of discipline.

”Your actions must be based on sound and objective judgment with consideration for merit and proven record of competence and loyalty ,” Ambode said .

The governor , who underscored the strategic role of the civil service , said the succeeds government policies and programmes largely depended on the quality and orientation of the civil service .

“Hence the need for the new leadership to implement necessary measures and initiatives to foster growth and development ,” he said .

Responding, Muri- Okunola thanked Ambode for the confidence and trust reposed in him .

He assured that the public service would improve on all well- known traditions for speedy , efficient and effective implementation of government policies and initiatives .

The 46 -year -old Technocrat is the youngest Lagos HOS ever .

He was appointed as the Executive Secretary , Land Use and Allocation Committee , a position he held between 2005 and 2011 .

Until his appointment , he was the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Social Development .

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