By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Funke Adepoju |
In a decisive move to strengthen leadership at one of Nigeria’s foremost public service training institutions, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Mrs. Funke Adepoju as the substantive Director-General of the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Topo, Badagry.
The announcement, effective immediately, follows the retirement of former DG Mrs. Cecilia Umaru Gayya and an interim leadership period under Mr. B.O. Eniaiyejuni.
Adepoju, until her new role, served as the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LSWRC), where she earned acclaim for her transformative policies in urban water management and sustainable development. Known for her strategic reforms, she played a pivotal role in enhancing Lagos’ water infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and public health outcomes.
“I have dedicated my career to improving infrastructure and regulatory systems, ensuring sustainable water solutions and better public service delivery,” Adepoju once stated in a public address. Her expertise in policy innovation and capacity building aligns perfectly with ASCON’s mandate to train and develop senior public servants.
With a reputation as a reform-driven administrator, Adepoju has spearheaded initiatives that boosted transparency and efficiency in Lagos’ water sector. Her efforts contributed significantly to the state’s progress toward UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly clean water and sanitation (SDG 6).
Her outstanding contributions have earned her multiple awards, including commendations from the Lagos State Government, recognizing her impact on governance and public welfare.
ASCON, Nigeria’s premier public service training institution, is poised for a new phase of growth under Adepoju’s leadership. Stakeholders anticipate: Enhanced training programs for senior civil servants, Stronger public-private partnerships to drive institutional development, and Innovative reforms in line with Tinubu’s public sector efficiency agenda
Located in the historic town of Badagry, ASCON plays a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s administrative workforce. Adepoju’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to excellence in public service training.
This decision reflects President Tinubu’s broader strategy of placing seasoned professionals in key federal roles to drive governance reforms. Adepoju’s proven leadership in regulatory and infrastructural development makes her an ideal fit for steering ASCON toward greater impact.
As she assumes office, the public sector watches with optimism, expecting her to bring the same transformative energy that marked her tenure in Lagos.
Industry analysts predict Adepoju will prioritize digital transformation, stakeholder engagement, and performance-driven training programs at ASCON. With her track record, Nigeria’s public service sector may be in for a game-changing era.