The Lagos State Government has announced the extension of its flexible work initiative for civil servants, aiming to alleviate the economic pressures on workers in the state. This decision, disclosed in a statement by the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, is set to take effect from June 3 and will run until September 3.
In the statement, Agoro explained that the extension was approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as a measure to mitigate the impact of the recent removal of fuel subsidies on public servants. “Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has magnanimously approved the extension of the Flexible Work Initiative for an additional three months, effective from June 3 to September 3, 2024,” the statement read.
The initiative primarily allows civil servants to work from home, thereby reducing the financial strain caused by increased transportation costs. However, certain categories of workers are exempt from this policy due to the nature of their jobs. These include staff of the Lagos Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), teaching staff in basic and secondary schools, healthcare workers, clinical staff, allied health professionals in clinical facilities, first responders, and drivers. These groups will continue with their existing roster, shift, or call duty arrangements.
Agoro emphasized the importance of ensuring that these exempted workers still meet their Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to maintain the effectiveness of the government’s policies and programs. “Due to the peculiarities of their work schedules, staff of Lagos Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), teaching staff in basic and secondary schools, healthcare workers, clinical staff, allied health professionals in clinical facilities, as well as first responders in the state and drivers, are hereby exempted from the work-from-home initiative. These groups will continue their roster, shift, or call duty arrangements,” Agoro stated.
He further urged Accounting Officers to ensure compliance with the directive and to publicize the circular widely across the service. “Consequently, Accounting Officers are enjoined to ensure that concerned officers achieve their respective Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the effective implementation of the government’s policies and programs in line with the THEMES+ Agenda of the present administration. Accordingly, Accounting Officers are enjoined to note the contents of this circular for compliance and give it the deserved service-wide publicity,” the statement concluded.
The flexible work initiative reflects the Lagos State Government’s commitment to supporting its workforce amidst challenging economic times. By extending this initiative, the government aims to provide immediate relief to its employees, allowing them to better manage their personal and professional lives during this period of economic adjustment.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has been proactive in addressing the needs of public servants, recognizing the critical role they play in the execution of state policies and the delivery of essential services. This extension is part of broader efforts to cushion the effects of recent economic policies and ensure that public servants remain motivated and productive.
The continuation of the flexible work policy is a testament to the government’s responsiveness to the concerns of its workforce. It underscores the administration’s dedication to maintaining a balance between operational efficiency and employee well-being. As the initiative progresses, the government will likely monitor its impact and make any necessary adjustments to further support its employees and maintain the smooth functioning of state operations.
