By Nkechi Eze
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, has underscored accountability in governance as a critical driver of sustainable national development, calling on all tiers of government to demonstrate transparency and responsibility in the management of public resources.
Senator Akume made the remarks during a church thanksgiving service held in his honour to mark his 72nd birthday anniversary at St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Gboko, Benue State. The event attracted political leaders, clergy, community stakeholders and well-wishers from within and outside the state.
In an official signed statement issued by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Segun Imohiosen, the SGF stressed that national development is a collective responsibility that requires strong synergy among the Federal, State and Local Governments. He urged state and local governments to ensure accountability and the judicious utilisation of the increased federal allocations they currently receive under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that such resources must translate into tangible development at the grassroots level.
According to him, effective governance and prudent management of public funds remain indispensable to improving the living conditions of Nigerians and advancing the country’s development agenda.
While expressing gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve his people and the nation, Senator Akume reflected on his long journey through the Civil Service and politics, describing his life as one of service and commitment to the public good. He noted that, by God’s grace, he has been able to empower many individuals over the years, even with what he described as the meagre resources at his disposal.
The SGF also called on Nigerians to continue to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly in its drive toward infrastructural renewal and national transformation, stressing that sustained public support is essential for the success of ongoing reforms and development initiatives across the country.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Gboko, Most Rev. William Amove Avenya, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina-Ala, Most Rev. Isaac Dugu, described the 72nd birthday anniversary of the SGF as a significant milestone and a turning point for the good of Benue State and Nigeria at large.
Bishop Dugu used the occasion to urge prominent sons and daughters of Benue State occupying positions of authority to remain united, irrespective of political affiliations or differences, in order to collectively advance the development of the state. He emphasised that unity of purpose among leaders is essential to delivering lasting progress and prosperity to the people.
The thanksgiving service concluded with prayers for the SGF, Benue State and the nation, as well as renewed calls for accountable leadership and collective commitment to national development.
