Sanwo-Olu rewards excellence, doles out cars, millions to Lagos Workers

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has rewarded outstanding public servants in the state with cash prizes and brand-new vehicles, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to recognising excellence, professionalism and dedication within the civil service.

At a special luncheon held in honour of the 2025 Outstanding Public Servants at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday, the governor announced cash rewards of ₦5 million each to five exceptional officers selected from a pool of civil servants across the state.

In addition, five senior officers also emerged through a raffle draw to receive brand-new cars in recognition of their exemplary service.

The award recipients were drawn from 177 public servants shortlisted from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), comprising 78 junior and 99 senior officers, following what officials described as a rigorous and transparent selection process.

Beyond the top awardees, Governor Sanwo-Olu extended cash rewards to other honourees, with 73 junior officers receiving ₦500,000 each, while 94 senior officers were awarded ₦1 million apiece.

Addressing the gathering, the governor commended the award recipients for their dedication and urged them to sustain excellence and commit themselves to continuous self-development.

“Once you identify your skill, you must continue to develop and refine it. Never allow it to decline,” Sanwo-Olu said, stressing that consistent improvement and perseverance remain the foundation for long-term success and recognition in public service.

He noted that competence becomes evident when responsibility calls, adding that preparation and discipline ultimately distinguish those ready for greater opportunities.

“So, the Head of Service has given all five awardees in the junior category ₦5 million each. And because he is the Head of Service and my teammate, I do not want to compete with him,” the governor said.

“Therefore, to every other person in the junior category, I will give ₦500,000. And for everyone in the senior category, let us give them ₦1 million each.”

In a related development, Sanwo-Olu announced the appointment of Mrs Toyin Anjous-Ademuyiwa, former Director-General of the Lagos State Office of Transformation, Creativity and Innovation (OTCI), as a Permanent Secretary in the Lagos State Public Service.

He described the appointment as a recognition of her leadership qualities and contributions to institutional reforms and innovation within the state.

Earlier, the Head of Service of Lagos State, Mr Bode Agoro, explained that the luncheon marked the grand finale of the 2025 Public Service Week, which featured activities such as medical screenings, fitness walks, donations to children with disabilities, long-service awards, a government lecture and talent competitions.

Agoro disclosed that the 177 honourees were selected from 312 nominations received statewide, following a thorough assessment process.

He charged the award recipients to justify the confidence reposed in them by remaining diligent, responsible and committed to duty, noting that the recognition placed a greater responsibility on them to serve as role models within the civil service.

He also expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his sustained support for public servants and his commitment to improving welfare and motivation across the Lagos State Public Service.