Senator George Akume, the newly appointed Secretary to the
Government of the Federation (SGF),
assumed his duties on Wednesday as the 21st
SGF in Nigeria. He wasted no time and promptly reported to his office after
being sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu earlier in the day.
Upon his arrival at the Office of the Secretary to the
Government of the Federation (OSGF) Complex in Abuja, Senator Akume was greeted
by Mr. Boss Mustapha, the former SGF, who handed over his responsibilities and
provided him with a comprehensive handover note. The note included various important
matters that required Akume’s attention and follow-up.
During a brief handover ceremony, Mustapha briefed Akume on
the pending issues that needed his immediate attention. These issues
encompassed a wide range of matters, including reports on bilateral agreements
with Saudi Arabia, the resourcing of Nigeria’s diplomatic missions worldwide,
the restructuring of federal government parastatals, agencies, and commissions,
as well as reports on the COVID-19 task force, Boko Haram detainees, and the
investigation of Ibrahim Magu, the former acting Chairman of the Economic and
Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Akume graciously accepted the handover note and assured
Mustapha that he would diligently address and follow up on the pending matters.
Recognizing the sensitivity of his position, he promised to maintain an
open-door policy and emphasized his commitment to ensuring that government
policies were in the best interests of the Nigerian people. He also expressed
his willingness to consult his predecessor whenever necessary.
Following his inauguration, Senator Akume expressed his
gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged to bring his wealth of
experience to bear in his new role. He affirmed his intention to follow the
exemplary leadership of President Bola Tinubu, whom he regarded as a doer
rather than a mere critic. Akume vowed not to disappoint and stated that
failure was not an option.
The appointment of Akume as the SGF was received with great
joy in his home state of Benue. Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia expressed his
delight that out of all 36 states, Benue was chosen to produce the Secretary to
the Government. He expressed confidence in Akume’s abilities and believed that
he would excel in his new position, bringing pride to both Benue and the
nation.
Regina Akume, the wife of Senator Akume, also expressed her
appreciation for the President’s decision. She described her husband as a
hardworking, humble, and compassionate man and expressed confidence that he
would give his best for Nigeria.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several prominent
figures, including Senate President Ahmed Lawan, Kwara State Governor
AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation,
Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan. Additionally, notable individuals such as Senator
Abdullahi Adamu, Senator Iyiola Omisore, and Maj.-Gen. Babagana Monguno, the
National Security Adviser (NSA), were present.
Several former governors, including Atiku Bagudu, Badaru
Abubakar, Simon Lalong, Dave Umahi, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, and Tanko Al-Makura,
also attended the event. Former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister
of Justice, Michael Aondoakaa, former Lagos State Commissioner for Information
and Strategy, Dele Alake, and former Finance Commissioner in Lagos, Mr. Wale
Edun, were among the other distinguished guests.
With the inauguration ceremony complete, Senator George Akume
began his tenure as the 21st Secretary to the Government of the Federation,
ready to embark on the important responsibilities entrusted to him and
determined to serve the Nigerian people with dedication and integrity.
