By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Government has charged members of the Board of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance, while directing the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) to intensify efforts toward food security and technology-driven agriculture.
According to an official signed statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, gave the directives on Tuesday in Abuja during the separate inaugurations of the Boards of NUPRC and NALDA.
Akume described the inaugurations as significant milestones in the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen governance frameworks, deepen sectoral reforms, and accelerate inclusive national development.
At the inauguration of the NUPRC Board, he said the exercise represents a critical step in the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which is designed to reposition Nigeria’s petroleum industry through enhanced regulatory clarity, institutional independence, accountability, and adherence to global best practices.
He noted that the establishment of the Board underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s upstream petroleum resources are managed transparently and efficiently in the best interest of citizens.
The SGF stated that as the apex governance body of the Commission, the Board is expected to provide strategic oversight, policy direction, and institutional stability to boost investor confidence, optimise revenue generation, and promote sustainable development within the upstream sector.
“Members of the Board, your charge is clear. You are to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance, ensure accountability and transparency, and work constructively with management and stakeholders while maintaining regulatory independence,” Akume stated.
He emphasised that integrity, diligence, and fidelity to the law must guide the Board’s decisions, noting that public trust and national interest depend on their stewardship.
Akume further linked the inauguration to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises strong institutions, the rule of law, and integrity in public service, adding that effective regulation of the upstream petroleum sector is central to economic growth, energy security, and fiscal sustainability.
In a separate ceremony inaugurating the NALDA Board, the SGF reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to agricultural transformation, describing the Authority as a critical vehicle for poverty reduction, food security, job creation, and rural development.
He highlighted NALDA’s mandate in agricultural land development and referenced ongoing initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Mega Farm Estates, which are being developed as mechanised agricultural hubs with irrigation systems, processing infrastructure, and farmer settlements.
Akume also cited complementary programmes including the Renewed Hope Restoration Project, the Green Hope Project focused on climate-smart greenhouse farming, and the Aqua Hope Project aimed at expanding aquaculture production.
He noted that the initiatives are already contributing to increased food production, employment generation, and rural economic growth, in line with the administration’s economic diversification agenda.
“As we look ahead, NALDA is expected to scale up its programmes across more states, strengthen the use of technology, and expand opportunities for youth and women in agriculture,” he said.
The SGF stressed that the Board would play a pivotal role in providing strategic direction, oversight, and support to consolidate ongoing gains and ensure effective delivery of the Authority’s mandate.
He urged members of both Boards to approach their responsibilities with patriotism and commitment to national development, assuring them of the Federal Government’s support.
Responding, Chairman of the NUPRC Board, Senator Magnus Abe, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the appointment and pledged that the Board would not disappoint.
“We are very grateful to the President and we want to assure him through you that we will not disappoint him,” Abe said, adding that the Board would work collaboratively with management to achieve the objectives of the PIA.
Similarly, Chairman of the NALDA Board, Senator Kabir Abdullahi Barkiya, described the appointments as a call to service aligned with the administration’s vision to strengthen agriculture.
“As a Governing Board, our mandate is clear: to provide strategic direction, ensure sound governance, and uphold transparency and accountability in the discharge of our duties,” Barkiya stated, assuring that the Board would support the Authority in delivering tangible outcomes for Nigerians.
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