● The Party That Never Was: A Statesman’s Milestone Overshadowed by Mortality
● A Celebration Denied: · How Life Rewrote the Script
● A Legacy Beyond Time: Deceased’s Priceless Contributions to Lagos Public Service
The stage was set, the invitations envisioned, the tributes prepared—but the guest of honour never arrived. Instead of a jubilant gathering to mark his 79th birthday on February 10, Lagos State finds itself draped in mourning robes, grappling with the sudden passing of one of its most distinguished administrators. Hon. Dr. Akinsanya Sunny Ajose, a colossus in governance and public service, took his final bow on Thursday, January 16, 2025, leaving behind a script of service and sacrifice that now ends in an elegy..…CONTINUE READING
What was meant to be a grand commemoration has instead become a requiem, a sad reminder of life’s ephemeral nature. Family, friends, and colleagues who once anticipated a moment of joyful reminiscence are now left with grief-laden reflections. His birthday, once a marker of longevity, is now an emblem of life’s transience—a cruel irony that reinforces the fragile nature of human existence
Born in the historic town of Badagry, Hon. Dr. Ajose was a man of both vision and action, whose journey through life bore the marks of relentless pursuit of excellence. His academic expedition spanned continents, enriching him with the intellectual prowess that would later define his legacy. Armed with degrees from the University of Illinois and Governors State University, he returned to Nigeria, determined to infuse the Lagos State Civil Service with an ethos of discipline and reform.
His early years in public service reflected his commitment to diligence and structured governance. He was not merely a technocrat lost in bureaucratic labyrinths but a visionary who saw the civil service as the heartbeat of development. The lessons gleaned from his international exposure reinforced his belief that a well-structured bureaucracy was the cornerstone of any thriving society.
Colleagues and subordinates alike marveled at his capacity for meticulous planning and unwavering execution. He was never one to succumb to complacency or be swayed by political exigencies. Instead, he remained steadfast in his dedication to service, ensuring that every reform he championed was rooted in practicality and sustainability. His intellectual depth and administrative acumen became the standard against which excellence was measured in the Lagos State Civil Service.
His career in the Lagos State Civil Service, which began in 1979, was one of unwavering dedication. At a time when governance structures were ensnared in inertia, Ajose emerged as a force of renewal. His appointment as Head of Service in 2004 was both a testament to his sterling record and a moment of reckoning for a system yearning for efficiency. Under his leadership, the civil service underwent a metamorphosis—punctuality, diligence, and accountability became the pillars upon which governance was anchored.
Ajose spearheaded reforms that addressed the root causes of inefficiencies rather than merely treating their symptoms. His policies emphasized capacity building, ensuring that civil servants were equipped with the requisite knowledge and tools to function optimally. Training sessions and workshops became integral components of civil service operations, fostering an environment where learning and adaptability were paramount.
His tenure also saw a marked shift in the public perception of the civil service. No longer was it seen as a stagnant institution where mediocrity thrived. Instead, it became a dynamic entity driven by professionals who recognized the weight of their responsibilities. Ajose tackled entrenched inefficiencies head-on, implementing policies that curbed absenteeism and instilled a renewed sense of duty. Under his stewardship, civil servants could no longer evade postings while still drawing salaries—an intervention that brought structure and discipline to a workforce long plagued by complacency.
One of his most significant contributions was the introduction of performance evaluations that directly influenced promotions and benefits. This initiative ensured that career progression was based on merit rather than favoritism, a departure from the entrenched culture of nepotism that had once stifled progress. His leadership philosophy was simple: excellence should be rewarded, and mediocrity should have no place in governance.
Despite his firm stance on discipline, Ajose remained approachable. He was deeply invested in the professional growth of those under his watch, mentoring numerous civil servants who would later rise to prominent positions within Lagos State’s administrative framework. His ability to balance strict governance with genuine mentorship endeared him to many, solidifying his legacy as an administrator who led with both intellect and heart.
Even in retirement, his wisdom remained an invaluable asset to Lagos State. He was frequently sought for counsel, his insights shaping policies long after he had left active service. Those who worked under him still revere his leadership, speaking of a man whose presence could command respect without coercion, whose words carried the weight of experience and foresight.
His influence extended beyond the realm of policy-making; it was felt in the moral compass he left behind. Integrity, diligence, and selfless service—these were the tenets he championed, and they continue to shape the ethos of Lagos State’s civil service. In many ways, his legacy is not merely one of past achievements but of enduring principles that will guide governance for years to come.
But fate had its own script. Just weeks before his 79th birthday—a milestone he had every right to anticipate—he was called away, his story abruptly concluding before the final chapter could be written. The plans to celebrate his life while he lived have now turned into tributes eulogizing his deeds. The banquet has been replaced by candle-lit vigils, and the scheduled toasts have given way to solemn prayers.
Though his mortal journey has ended, his legacy remains inscribed in the annals of Lagos State’s administrative history. The reforms he championed continue to shape governance, his principles still guiding civil servants toward efficiency and excellence. His name will not be forgotten; his contributions will not fade into oblivion.
