By Chioma Obinna

The Lagos State Ministry of Health last week entered a new leadership phase with the formal reception of Dr. Dayo Lajide as its newly deployed Permanent Secretary.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, who charged charged the ministry’s leadership and workforce to close ranks called for constant preparedness to meet the state’s growing health demands.

Lajide’s redeployment, approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was described by stakeholders as both strategic and timely, given the expanding scope of the ministry and the central role of the Permanent Secretary as chief accounting and administrative officer.

Welcoming her at a reception, Abayomi said the Ministry of Health occupies a critical place in governance, with responsibilities that go far beyond hospitals and clinics.

“Health leadership is not for the unprepared. The Permanent Secretary must be ready at all times, able to take swift decisions and work in unity with political leadership and professionals,” Abayomi said.

“COVID-19 showed us the enormity of this responsibility. We are confident Dr. Lajide understands the terrain, and she will enjoy our full support.”

Abayomi noted that his professional relationship with the new PS spans nearly two decades, adding that her return represents continuity and renewed momentum in the ministry’s drive for efficiency and results.

On her part, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, commended the Acting Permanent Secretary, Dr. Folashade Oludara, for steering the ministry through a demanding transition period.

“Holding the fort during budget defence and year-end activities is no small task. This ministry thrives when we work as one family, sharing responsibility for success and failure alike,” Ogunyemi said.

She described Lajide as a proven leader whose tenure at Lagos Health District II earned her the confidence of staff, noting that her redeployment signals renewed attention to staff welfare, productivity and institutional growth.

Responding, Lajide said, “We must choose focus over distractions. Growth comes through self-development, hard work and commitment.

“My doors will remain open. Together, we will strengthen capacity, build people and deliver a truly people-centred administration.”

She acknowledged visible progress within the ministry since her last posting and expressed confidence that, with unity and shared purpose, the Lagos State Ministry of Health would attain even greater heights.