Minister for Information and Strategy Tasks PAOs On Effective Communication

The Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy has inaugurated its Toastmasters Club to enhance the public speaking and communication skills of Public Affairs Officers in the civil service. The well-attended ceremony, held at the Folarin Coker Staff Clinic Hall, carried the theme: "The Power of Words, The Birth of Leaders." The initiative is aimed at equipping officers with confidence and eloquence in line with the Ministry’s mandate to effectively communicate with the public.

Speaking at the event, Honourable Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, described the Toastmasters Club as a platform that nurtures creativity and helps members overcome shyness or lack of confidence in public speaking. He emphasized that officers in the Ministry are expected to communicate with clarity and confidence, urging them to embrace the opportunities offered by the club to refine their skills.

Permanent Secretary Mr Lanre Bajulaiye recalled being invited to join Toastmasters over three decades ago and expressed delight that the Ministry was inaugurating its club during his tenure. He encouraged foundation members to actively participate in club activities, be punctual, well-prepared, and to continually read and expand their knowledge to speak effectively whenever called upon.

Area Director and Club Sponsor, TM Funmi Omotoso, likened the birth of the Toastmasters Club to the joy of welcoming a new baby. She welcomed the members, highlighting that becoming a Toastmaster is a lifelong journey that equips members with lifelong skills in public speaking and leadership. Charter President TM Kayode Oyekanmi also expressed excitement about the club’s potential, assuring that the collective aspirations for the Ministry’s Toastmasters Club will be realized with the support of the team.

The inauguration ceremony featured key segments of a typical Toastmasters meeting, including Speaking Off the Cuff, Table Topics, and Prepared Speeches. Attendees were particularly impressed as speakers skillfully incorporated the Word of the Day, “Euphoria,” into their presentations, signaling a promising and impactful start for the Ministry’s Toastmasters Club.