By Nkechi Eze
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, has charged Chairmen, Chief Executive Officers and members of governing boards of Federal Parastatals, Agencies and Commissions to uphold the principles of good governance, accountability, integrity and efficient service delivery in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
According to an official signed statement by the Head, Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Chris Ugwuegbulam, the SGF gave the charge during an induction programme for Chief Executive Officers, Chairmen and Governing Board Members of Parastatals, Agencies and Commissions held on Monday, 18 May 2026 in Abuja. He was represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni.
Senator Akume stated that the induction programme was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of government policies, processes and administrative procedures, while equipping them with the knowledge required for effective discharge of their statutory mandates. He stressed that the public service remains the principal vehicle for policy implementation and service delivery, noting that parastatals, agencies and commissions are created to execute specific functions within defined national priorities.
The SGF expressed concern over recurring conflicts and misunderstandings between governing boards and chief executive officers in some agencies, warning that such issues have negatively affected productivity and institutional harmony. He clarified that governing boards are responsible for policy direction and strategic oversight, while chief executive officers are tasked with day-to-day administration and operational management of their institutions.
He further emphasised that governing boards must operate strictly within their statutory mandates and avoid interference in daily administrative functions. According to him, board members are expected to focus on policy guidance, oversight, and ensuring alignment with the long-term interests of the Federal Government.
Senator Akume also urged board chairmen and members to acquaint themselves with the enabling laws and operational guidelines governing their respective institutions. He outlined key oversight responsibilities of boards to include safeguarding government interests, promoting sustainable and cost-effective operations, strengthening internal control and risk management systems, monitoring management performance, and supporting strategic institutional development.
He disclosed that the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) has been directed to conduct impact assessments on agencies whose board members and chief executives participate in the induction programme, in order to evaluate compliance with extant rules and measure levels of institutional harmony and effectiveness.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to strengthening governance structures, Senator Akume called on all appointees to justify the confidence reposed in them through professionalism, dedication and adherence to the principles of equity, transparency and accountability.
