At least 30 per cent of Lagos State Government employees who participated in foreign training programmes funded by the state have absconded, failing to return after completing their courses abroad.
This revelation was made by the Lagos State Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr Afolabi Ayantayo, during the 2025 ministerial press briefing held in Alausa, Ikeja, marking the second of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.
According to Ayantayo, the government has continued to invest in the professional development of its workforce by sponsoring overseas training programmes.
However, despite these efforts, a significant number of beneficiaries have taken advantage of the opportunity to relocate permanently.
“Over the past three years, about 8,000 staff from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) were granted approval to go on study leave to improve their professional skills,” he said
He also disclosed that between May 2022 and December 2024, a total of 23,420 staff members participated in more than 185 training initiatives, which covered various competencies, leadership development, and regulatory compliance.
“From May 2022 to December 2024, a total of 23,420 staff benefitted from various training interventions. In that period, over 185 training programmes were held, covering multiple skill levels, leadership development, and regulatory compliance,” the Commissioner stated.
In addition to the absconders, Ayantayo noted that some employees voluntarily left the state’s service in search of better prospects abroad.
On a more positive note, the commissioner praised the administration for increasing the state minimum wage from N35,000 to N85,000, describing it as a major achievement under Governor Sanwo-Olu.
Addressing the health sector, Ayantayo cited interventions such as the payment of the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), rural allowances for primary healthcare staff, and bonuses for workers at the Lagos State College of Medicine.
However, when questioned about severance payments for outgoing political office holders, the commissioner declined to respond.
Ayantayo revealed that the Lagos State Government currently has a workforce of approximately 101,108 employees.
