By Nkechi Eze
A new chapter has begun at the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) as Barrister Charles Abana formally resumed duties as Acting Chairman, outlining an agenda anchored on discipline, teamwork and strengthened institutional performance.
Barrister Abana, who was the most senior Director in the Commission prior to his appointment, immediately set the tone for his administration by issuing clear directives to Heads of Directorates to ensure that all staff members are fully engaged through structured work schedules and clearly defined assignments.
Addressing management and staff shortly after assuming office, the Acting Chairman underscored that leadership within the Commission must be a shared responsibility. He emphasized that the effective implementation of the Fiscal Responsibility Act depends not on one office alone but on teamwork, discipline and collective commitment across all cadres of the institution.
He stressed that every department and staff member has a role to play in safeguarding the Commission’s mandate of promoting fiscal discipline, transparency and accountability in public finance management.
On staff welfare, Barrister Abana assured employees that management remains attentive and responsive to their concerns, including salary-related matters. While acknowledging the importance of staff motivation, he called for renewed loyalty, professionalism and dedication in the discharge of official responsibilities.
The Acting Chairman also made it clear that punctuality and discipline would be strictly enforced under his leadership, signaling a resolve to strengthen internal standards and enhance productivity.
In the area of capacity development, he clarified that the knowledge-sharing allowance would henceforth be granted only to staff who actively participate in mandatory knowledge-sharing sessions. According to him, attendance and meaningful engagement in such sessions will be prerequisites for eligibility, as the initiative is intended to foster institutional learning and professional growth.
Barrister Abana further assured staff that efforts are ongoing to create a more conducive working environment that supports efficiency and morale. He encouraged employees to work collaboratively to reposition the Commission and reinforce its relevance in Nigeria’s fiscal governance framework.
In their separate remarks, leaders of the Commission’s two unions congratulated the new Acting Chairman on his appointment and pledged their full support. They reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining a harmonious working relationship with management in the interest of the Commission’s progress and stability.
With his assumption of office, Barrister Abana has signaled a leadership style focused on accountability, internal cohesion and strengthened operational standards, an approach observers say could redefine the Commission’s trajectory in the months ahead.
