Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reiterated that appointments into his administration are guided by competence, integrity and excellence rather than ethnic considerations.
The governor made the declaration on Saturday at a reception organised by Urhobo and Isoko elites in Lagos to honour the Deputy Chief of Staff, Samuel Egube, for his outstanding contributions to governance and public service.
Sanwo-Olu said Egube’s appointment and steady rise within the Lagos State Government were earned through professionalism, sound judgment and a proven track record of delivering results.
He praised Egube’s performance during his tenure as Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, noting that he championed people-focused budgeting and strengthened performance-driven governance across the state.
The governor added that Egube has continued to demonstrate exceptional leadership as Deputy Chief of Staff by effectively coordinating the governor’s engagements and ensuring the smooth operation of the Governor’s Office.
Describing Egube as a trusted adviser, Sanwo-Olu said his integrity, loyalty and competence had earned his confidence over more than two decades of personal and professional association.
While acknowledging that the event celebrated one of the Urhobo nation’s distinguished sons, the governor stressed that excellence should never be judged by ethnicity or regional identity.
“We don’t ask where excellence comes from. What matters is the ability to do the job well and serve the people faithfully,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Earlier, the Convener of the Urhobo and Isoko Elites in Lagos, Olorogun Nan Okiro, commended Egube for his resilience and remarkable contributions to public service, describing him as a worthy ambassador of the Urhobo people.
Chairman of the occasion, Olorogun Moses-Tiga, said the celebration recognised Egube’s excellence, leadership, integrity and legacy, adding that his career exemplifies discipline, professionalism, trust and outstanding character.
Responding to the honour, Egube thanked the Urhobo and Isoko community for the recognition, describing it as an encouragement to remain committed to excellence and selfless service.
He urged young Nigerians to pursue success through discipline, resilience, integrity and hard work, regardless of their ethnic or social background.
The event attracted notable personalities, including Vanguard Media Chairman and Publisher Uncle Sam Amuka, senior government officials, political leaders, traditional rulers led by the Oniru of Iruland, Oba Gbolahan Lawal, as well as family members and associates, who praised Egube for his dedicated service to Lagos State.
The ceremony featured cultural performances, musical entertainment, the presentation of a commemorative plaque and the conferment of the Leadership Excellence Award on Egube.
