By Our Correspondent
In a heartwarming celebration marked by pomp and grandeur, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, has conferred the prestigious Best Performing Staff of the Year 2024 award on his Director of Media and Communications, Mr. Lanre Oloyede.
The colourful event, held in Abuja, was filled with joy and jubilation as staff members gathered to celebrate one of their own. The atmosphere was electric with admiration and excitement as colleagues poured encomiums on Mr. Oloyede, describing him as a hardworking, diligent, and excellent professional whose service has been instrumental to the success of the office.

Speaking at the occasion, the Senior presidential aide, Hon. Abba Isa commended Mr. Oloyede’s exceptional work ethic, loyalty, and dedication to duty, stating that his consistency in delivering results even under pressure made him stand out among his peers.
“Mr. Oloyede has a proven track record of integrity and loyalty. He is one of the few staff members who has stood by me through thick and thin. His humility and commitment to duty are the hallmark of someone destined for greatness,” Hon. Abba Isa said.

The recognition, according to the SSA, is part of a broader initiative to motivate staff and encourage a culture of excellence and accountability within the office.

In his goodwill message, the National Coordinator of the Beyond Disability Project, Hon. Rodstick Steven, affirmed that the award was well-deserved. He noted Mr. Oloyede’s invaluable contributions to the realization of the office’s mandate under the leadership of Hon. Abba Isa.
“Mr. Oloyede’s dedication to duty and his tireless commitment to the office’s goals are commendable. This award is not only a celebration of excellence but also a call to others to emulate such dedication,” Hon. Rodstick remarked.
Also speaking, the Director of Special Duties, Barr. Lilian Odinka, congratulated Mr. Oloyede and applauded Hon. Abba Isa for institutionalizing a staff reward system within the office. She stressed that initiatives like these will significantly boost staff morale and enhance productivity.

In an emotional response, Mr. Oloyede expressed his profound gratitude to the SSA for the unexpected honour. He admitted he was taken by surprise and thanked his colleagues for their support and collaboration in the execution of their collective responsibilities.
“I wasn’t expecting this at all, and I feel truly honoured. I dedicate this award to all my colleagues. We’ve worked together as a team under the visionary leadership of Hon. Abba Isa. This award is for us all,” Mr. Oloyede said.
He added that the award would serve as a source of motivation for him to double his efforts, reiterating his commitment to supporting the SSA in delivering on the mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for persons with special needs and equal opportunities.
“To whom much is given, much is expected. The reward for hard work is more work, and I’m inspired to give even more,” he concluded.
The ceremony not only underscored the spirit of teamwork within the office of the SSA but also highlighted the administration’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding excellence in public service.