Integrity
By Aderonke Ojediran
Lagos State Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has described his Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Sam Egube, as an outstanding professional whose integrity, competence and dedication earned public confidence.
Sanwo-Olu spoke on Saturday at a reception organised by Urhobo and Isoko people resident in Lagos to celebrate Egube in recognition of his contributions to public service and national development.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Egube was Lagos State’s Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning from 2019 to 2023.
The governor said the honour reflected Egube’s exemplary character and the esteem in which he was held by his ethnic community.
He described Egube as a dependable ally, trusted adviser and committed family man.
He said he had known Egube for more than 25 years and observed his consistency, honesty and professionalism.
“Sam is a distinguished Nigerian, an outstanding professional, a consummate and cerebral man whose integrity, competence and commitment to duty are unquestionable.
“He is someone you can entrust with any assignment and go to sleep knowing it will be delivered with the highest level of professionalism,” the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu commended the Urhobo and Isoko communities for setting aside a special day to celebrate Egube, saying the gesture was a testament to Egube’s impact and exemplary service.
“When your own people decide to honour you on their own accord, it is recognition that is truly deserving.
‘I thank the Urhobo and Isoko communities for identifying with his success and celebrating a son who has upheld the values and reputation of his heritage,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor said Egube had distinguished himself in both the private and public sectors, recalling his professionalism in banking in the past.
He said Egube first impressed him as a member of a transition committee before serving successfully as Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning.
Sanwo-Olu said that Ebube helped to develop people-focused budgets anchored on measurable performance and accountability.
“As Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, he discharged his responsibilities with dignity, partnership and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
“He ensured that our budgets were people-driven, measurable and impactful,” he said.
According to the governor, Egube has continued to excel as his Deputy Chief of Staff, overseeing the administrative and corporate operations of Lagos State Governor’s Office with diligence and sound judgment.
“He manages the corporate side of my office with exceptional professionalism.
“He ensures I am adequately prepared for every engagement and offers advice based on merit, fairness and the best interest of Lagos State.
“His judgment is one I trust completely. Whenever I direct people to see Sam, they know they must justify their proposals professionally because he evaluates every issue fairly and objectively,” he said.
The governor also commended Egube’s wife, Edith, for support, describing her as a virtuous partner whose encouragement had contributed to her husband’s success in public service.
“I thank Edith for keeping the home front peaceful.
“It is only when there is stability at home that we see excellence reflected in public service,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu said Egube’s recognition demonstrated that excellence transcended ethnic, religious and regional boundaries, urging Nigerians to continue rewarding competence and integrity.
“Today is not just a celebration of Sam Egube. It is a celebration of Nigeria, Lagos State and the enduring value of excellence.
” It does not matter where you come from; what matters is your commitment to service, professionalism and delivering results. Excellence has no tribe,” he said.
In his remarks, Egube said he was grateful to God, the governor and his kinsmen.
“I am grateful to everyone who has thought it right to bestow this honour on me.
” I am grateful to the hardworking Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for trusting me with these responsibilities.
“Lagos remains a solid connecting point to Nigeria. It is honour to be part of a great sub-national such as Lagos State,” he said.(NAN)
