Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, has described Mr Abiola Fagunwa, his former Director of Public Affairs (DPA), as a diligent and hardworking officer who gave his best.
Hamzat made the statement virtually during a retirement party in honor of Fagunwa at Alausa, Lagos on Friday.
Fagunwa, popularly known as Bfag, started his career in the Lagos State Civil Service 34 years ago as a Public Relations Officer.
The deputy governor described Fagunwa as a consumate compere who honed his skills attending several trainings and performances.
According to him, Bfag is a committed and dependable officer who gave his best at what he does.
“He is an awesome writer, speaks well and ready to stay late as necessary. He gives his all. So, when I became the deputy governor, I went to look for him to work with me.
“I like his work ethics. He is very hardworking and well groomed. He is a good family man,cares about his family and understands that the pillar of everything in life starts from the family,” he said
Permanent Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Mobolaji Daba, described Fagunwa as a ‘General’ who was highly cerebral and mentored others.
Similarly, Mr Olushina Thorpe, Permanent Secretary, Lagos Ministry of Information, also described Fagunwa as a working encyclopedia.
According to him, Fagunwa is amiable, endearing and somebody one would always want in their company; one who never shunned work.
“Officially, he has finished his tour of duty but he is someone that could be call upon at anytime,” he said.
Thorpe, therefore, advised officers to be up and doing at their places of work, while urging them to be selfless without thinking of gains or benefits.
He said officers should be selfless at work, adding: “Whatever you put in, you will get out, which is the law of nature”, he added, praying God to grant Fagunwa good health to enjoy his retirement benefits.
Fagunwa said the civil service was a powerful tool for societal advancement, rather than being a clog in the wheel of progress.
The former director, however, explained that there were two types of people in civil service, those who did the job and those who pretend to.
He, therefore, advised civil servants to put in their best to justify their salaries.
“I implore them to be diligent and hardworking. They should do their jobs to the best of their ability.
“Although the civil service job is not about fat salaries, but it will not leave one in penury,” he said.
It was all mixed feelings for friends and families of the former director as they all had good memories and commendable things to say about him.
