It is a choice made from immense character, excellence, diligence and hardwork. These was how a cross section of Nigerians described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s pick for Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume. The congruence of opinion is that the former governor of Benue State is a consummate administrator, democrat per excellence and dependable ally.
There are pockets of misgivings about Tinubu’s appointment, something to ordinarily expect from an insatiable society like Nigeria. But the truth is that a leaders choice of his close allies for very sensitive appointment is not just a Nigerian thing. Prime Ministers of the United Kingdom have through history surrounded themselves with long term friends, old school mates and loyal long standing associates while in office.
Not to be left out; the dictators of modern times all surrounded themselves with family members for exactly the same reason. From Saddam Hussain in Iraq, Kabila in the Congo to Mugabe in Zimbabwe. Whether they have official portfolios or not, leaders like to see loyal familiar faces every day.
All through American history, presidents have always used trusted aids and family members as close aids and advisers as well as appointees. In my last count there has been at least 19 presidents that have done this overtly; so this is a well travelled path. America is an advanced democracy governed by the rule of law, yet “nepotism” is an approved acceptable presidential conducted for a good part of its democratic history.
In Nigeria, the pattern has always been the same. For instance, the appointment of Akume confirms Tinubu’s knack for excellence, high sense of responsibility and result-oriented approach to governance. The flurry of outpour of positive emotions bears eloquent testimony to Senator Akume’s administrative pedigree. The governors from the North Central region of the country on Thursday paid the new Secretary to the Government of the Federation a courtesy call at his office, where they pledged their loyalty and support to enable him succeed.
It was as if Nigerians were waiting for him to be appointed because the promptness with which attestation to credibility started pouring in is enervating. Even the traditional institutions are not left out. For instance, the paramount traditional ruler of Idoma kingdom in Benue State, Och’Idoma, Dr John Eliagwu Odogbo, of Akume’s home state, described “the new SGF as a seasoned administrator bearing on his civil service experience, and political sagacity.”
The new task bestowed on Akume is a clarion testament of the president’s trust in his capabilities and the rich wealth of experience he (Akume) has garnered over the years in public service. His unwavering commitment to public service and ability to navigate complex challenges with grace and compassion will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the lives of countless citizens.
As a former permanent secretary, a two-term governor, three times Senator and minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, his appointment as the SGF is a reflection of his outstanding capabilities and the trust and confidence placed in him by the President Tinubu-led federal government.
In retrospect, Akume’s tireless efforts in promoting excellence and fostering growth have left an indelible mark on Benue and Nigeria at large. This is why not a few Nigerians hope that he will bring his exceptional skills, vision, and unwavering integrity to this pivotal role. It is the evidence of exceptional leadership quality, dedication and unwavering commitment to public service. I am very confident that he will continue to serve as a beacon of wisdom, integrity, and vision for this government.
In our recent history, national appointment had elicited so much acceptability. but like his principal, Tinubu, Akume’s acceptability transcends ethnic and religious divides. This is a pointer to the track records of his unblemished public service to the nation. Northern Elders Forum (NEF) was not left out, as the group hailed the appointment as well deserved.
To validate the fact that this is not another praise jamboree, permit me to take an excerpt of what NEF’s Director General, Prof Doknan Sheni, said in a statement, “Akume’s appointment would give Nigerians from North and South the opportunity to benefit from his vast experience. The NEF fondly remembers your contributions to its numerous previous activities and rates you as a true Pan Nigerian.”
George Akume is good natured. His core strength is loyalty. This is reflected in his unalloyed loyalty to the political party he belongs. His close confidants know him as a faithful fellow. Despite his elevated status he has remained humble. That’s why in a politically sophisticated Benue, Akume could dislodge the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Reason for his political footholds is not far-fetched. He is truthful, he is humble; he has knack for excellence; he is compassionate. On the whole, when the purity of motives of a leader is not in doubt, unconditional loyalty becomes effortless.
For the benefit of hindsight, George Akume, born on 27 December 1953. He previously served as minister of Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs under President Muhammadu Buhari from 2019 to 2023. He was the Senator representing Benue North-West Senatorial District from 2007 to 2019. He was also the Minority Leader of the Senate from June 2011 to June 2015, and also served as the governor of Benue State from May 1999 to May 2007.
By way of education, Akume obtained a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a master’s degree in Labour Relations from the University of Ibadan.
The major reason why his appointment is eliciting hope is that politics is always about different views, vision, mission and ideas to realise the citizens goal. Senator Akume’s tenure as SGF is expected to explore different route and different visions that would lead to a successful governance options in the Tinubu-led government
As the former Benue governor takes over the mantle of leadership as SGF, some national and international observers are waiting to see the difference the quality of political appointments would under the current administration.
Ibrahim is the director, Communications and Strategic Planning, Presidential Support Committee (PSC).
