Appointments In My Administration Driven By Merit, Says Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Saturday stunned his audience and declared that excellence, competence and integrity not ethnic background remain the guiding principles for appointments in his administration.

The governor stated this at a reception organised by Urhobo and Isoko elites in Lagos to honour his Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Samuel Egube, for his contributions to governance and public service.

Sanwo-Olu said Egube’s appointment and steady rise in government were earned through professionalism, sound judgment and a proven capacity to deliver results, stressing that his administration does not consider ethnicity in assigning public responsibilities.

“We don’t ask where excellence comes from. What matters is the ability to do the job well and serve the people faithfully,” the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu described Egube as a cerebral, competent and dependable public servant who has distinguished himself in both the private and public sectors.

According to him, Egube demonstrated exceptional leadership during his tenure as Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, where he championed people-centred budgeting and strengthened performance-driven governance.

The governor added that as Deputy Chief of Staff, Egube has continued to provide effective coordination of the Governor’s Office while serving as a trusted adviser.

Sanwo-Olu also noted that his confidence in Egube is built on more than two decades of friendship and professional association, during which he has consistently displayed integrity, loyalty and exceptional competence.

He said although the event celebrated one of the Urhobo nation’s finest sons, it also reinforced the message that outstanding performance transcends ethnic and regional identities.

In his terse address, Egube thanked the Urhobo and Isoko elites for the recognition, describing the honour as an encouragement to remain committed to excellence in public service.

He urged young Nigerians to pursue success through discipline, resilience, integrity and hard work, irrespective of their background.

Convener of the Urhobo and Isoko Elites in Lagos, Olorogun Nan Okiro, commended Egube for his resilience, dedication and enduring legacy, saying he has represented his people with honour and distinction.

Chairman of the occasion, Olorogun Moses-Tiga, described the celebrant as a symbol of excellence, professionalism and integrity, noting that his career in both the financial sector and public service reflects discipline, trust and exemplary leadership.

The event was attended by government officials, political leaders, traditional rulers, family members and associates, including the Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal. Highlights included cultural performances, musical entertainment, the presentation of a commemorative plaque, the Leadership Excellence Award, and the unveiling of a commemorative brochure.