President Tinubu condoles with Lagos State over death of elder statesman Akinsanya Ajose

President Tinubu mourns the death of Akinsanya Ajose, former Lagos Head of Service, praising his leadership and contributions to the state

[dropcap]P[/dropcap]resident Bola Tinubu has extended his condolences to the Lagos State Government and the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the death of Akinsanya Ajose, a distinguished elder statesman and former Head of Service in Lagos State. Ajose passed away on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the age of 78.

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Ajose, a native of Badagry in Lagos State, had a remarkable career in the public service. He joined the Lagos Civil Service in 1979 and, after years of dedicated service, became the Head of Service in 2004.

He played a crucial role in shaping the state’s governance and policies, earning him a spot on the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council.

In a statement released on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised Ajose’s leadership and administrative prowess.

“He was an astute administrator and dogged civil servant. When I appointed him as the Head of Service, he became a rallying point.

He had a considerable influence on the workers. He was pivotal in getting the civil service behind our policies and initiatives,” Tinubu remarked.

The President went on to acknowledge Ajose’s enduring relationship with him even after his tenure. “Even after his tenure as the Head of Service, we remained very close because of his leadership qualities and because he was an important partner in development,” Tinubu added.

In his condolence message, the President expressed his sympathy to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the state government, and the people of Lagos.

He also offered prayers for strength and comfort for Ajose’s family, as well as for the peaceful repose of his soul.

Born on February 10, 1946, in Badagry, Ajose received his early education in Nigeria before pursuing higher studies in the United States.

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He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and Science from the University of Illinois, Chicago, in 1973, followed by a Master’s in Social Science from Governors State University in 1974.

Quadri Olaitan