By Olasunkanmi Akoni

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stressed the need for competence, integrity and excellence rather than ethnic considerations for appointment into public office.

Sanwo-Olu, made the declaration on Saturday at a reception organised by Urhobo and Isoko elites in Lagos to honour the Deputy Chief of Staff to the State Governor, Mr. Samuel Egube, for his contributions to governance and public service.

Sanwo-Olu who reaffirmed that appointments into his administration are guided by competence, said Egube’s appointment and continued advancement in government were earned through professionalism, sound judgment and a proven record of delivering results.

He noted that Egube had distinguished himself in various capacities, particularly as Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, where he championed people-centred budgeting and strengthened performance-driven governance.

According to the governor, Egube has continued to demonstrate exceptional leadership in his current role as Deputy Chief of Staff by coordinating the governor’s engagements and ensuring the smooth administration of the Governor’s Office.

Describing Egube as a dependable adviser, Sanwo-Olu said “his integrity, loyalty and competence” had earned his trust over more than two decades of personal and professional relationship.

While acknowledging that the event celebrated one of the Urhobo nation’s distinguished sons, the governor stressed that outstanding performance transcends ethnic and regional identities.

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

The Convener of the Urhobo and Isoko Elites in Lagos, Olorogun Nan Okiro, appreciated Egube for his resilience and enduring legacy thanking him for representing the people with honour and distinction as the people celebrate excellence praying that God would continue to guide and lead him.

Chairman of the occasion, Olorogun Moses-Tiga, said the day “is a celebration of excellence, legacy, leadership and integrity,” stressing that his journey ‘is one of resilience, professionalism, discipline, trust and impeccable character” as he had rendered exceptional services in various capacity both in the financial sector and government.

Responding, Egube thanked the Urhobo and Isoko elites for the recognition, describing the honour as an encouragement to remain committed to excellence and selfless service.

He said the recognition should inspire young Nigerians to pursue success through discipline, resilience, integrity and hard work, irrespective of their ethnic or social background.

Chairman and Publisher of Vanguard Media, Uncle Sam Amuka, led other dignitaries at the event, including: senior government officials, political leaders, traditional rulers, led by Oniru of Iruland, Oba Gbolahan Lawal, family members and associates, who commended Egube for his service and contributions to the development of Lagos State.

The event featured musical interlude, cultural performance, the presentation of plaque, Award recognition,”Leadership Excellence Award”, to the celebrant and commemorative brochure, among others.