Olumide Sogunle Bows Out of Lagos Public Service in Style ...As tributes pour in for a distinguished communicator and public servant

 

By Kayode Olopade 

It was an atmosphere filled with nostalgia, gratitude, and celebration as Mr. Olumide Michael Sogunle, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, bowed out of the State Public Service in grand style after decades of meritorious service.

The retirement ceremony, held at the multipurpose hall of Eko FM, Agidingbi, Ikeja, drew dignitaries from government circles, media practitioners, family, friends, and professional colleagues who gathered to honour a man widely respected for his professionalism, integrity, and unwavering dedication to public communication and service delivery.

Mr. Sogunle, a consummate communicator and veteran public affairs expert, had spent the greater part of his career shaping the public narrative of Lagos State Government policies and programmes. He was credited for being instrumental in strengthening the image and operations of the Ministry of Information and Strategy, particularly in the era of strategic communication and digital engagement.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, described Sogunle as “a thoroughbred professional who has not only mentored many but also elevated the Ministry through his sense of duty, calm demeanor, and strategic thinking.” He lauded the retiring Permanent Secretary’s role in deepening the public’s trust in government communications, especially during periods of crisis and reform.

The event also featured a Continuing Professional Development Seminar (PACPDS) in honour of Mr. Sogunle, themed “Succession Planning: Building a Sustainable Future.” The seminar had as guest speaker Professor Folake Feyisayo Olowookere, who underscored the importance of structured succession in public service to preserve institutional memory and maintain efficiency.

In his valedictory speech, an emotional Mr. Sogunle thanked God for sustaining him throughout his career and appreciated successive administrations in Lagos State for the opportunity to serve. He paid glowing tribute to his colleagues, subordinates, and media partners for their cooperation and support. “I leave fulfilled, knowing I have contributed my quota to the growth of our dear Lagos and its information architecture. The journey was not always easy, but the reward of service far outweighs the sacrifices,” he remarked.

He also advised upcoming public servants to remain committed, maintain a learning mindset, and uphold integrity as the bedrock of civil service.

Highlight of the occasion included presentations of gifts, citation reading, a documentary tribute, cultural performances, and goodwill messages from staff, media executives, and representatives of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

As Mr. Olumide Sogunle takes a bow from active public service, his legacy as a refined communicator, mentor, and model civil servant will continue to resonate within the Lagos State Government and beyond.