The Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, and colleagues have described the conferment of the Lagos State Man of the Year Award (LASMAYA 2026), on the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, Abdulhafiz Toriola, as a well-deserved recognition of excellence and performance.
Toriola, an engineer by profession from prestigious University of Lagos (UNILAG), was also described as a role model worthy of emulation.
Agoro and other speakers made the remarks at the 14th LASMAYA, held at the Radio Lagos/Eko FM Marquee, Ikeja, on Sunday.
The recognition, organized by the Centre for Policy Development and Political Studies (CEPODEPS), highlighted Toriola’s long-standing dedication to public service, operational excellence, and capacity building within Lagos State’s Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
Speaking at the event, which had Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, colleagues and representatives from the Body of Permanent Secretaries, other dignitaries held at Ikeja, on Sunday, Agoro commended Toriola’s leadership across various ministries—including his transformative work in transportation and housing.
Agoro, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tertiary Education, Kasali Adeniran, noted that Toriola’s career reflects the core values of Lagos State excellence, performance, impact, and sustainable development.
He commended Toriola’s integrity, compassion and commitment to public service, describing him as a role model, as well as mentor, while urging him to see the award as a call for greater service.
“This is a well-deserved recognition of excellence and a testimony to the visionary leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
” Toriola has been a role model, leading with empathy, integrity, and unyielding commitment to the welfare of the public,” he stated.
The Chief Organiser of the event, Dr. Aderemi Aderemi, said the award reflects Toriola’s exceptional leadership, trustworthiness, achievements, as well as contributions to Lagos State, describing him as “a man not given to frivolity.”
Other speakers emphasized Toriola’s approachable nature and mentorship, crediting him with inspiring staff across the civil service.
Toriola was, however, reminded of the adage that “the reward for good work is more work,” as speakers expressed confidence in his continued contributions to the growth of Lagos State.
Receiving the medal and certificate of honour, Toriola, who described the award as a privilege and a further call to service thanked the Centre for the recognition and pledged to remain committed to excellence, humanity and the growth of the civil service.
