News
As Tinubu Inaugurates Akume as 21st SGF
By Maiwada Dammallam
The news of the appointment of the former governor of Benue state, three terms Senator and the immediate past Minister of special duties as the new Secretary to government of the Federation came as a big surprise to many albeit a surprise as delightful as an unexpected Christmas present. The appointment was a masterly performance by President Tinubu, a political tactician whose adroitness always stands him out as a politician and an administrator. Beside being a round peg in a round hole, SGF Akume is a ready answer to the age long question of balancing the ethno-religious and regional hegemony of Nigeria, perhaps, the most delicate aspect of the schedule of a Nigerian president.
Zeroing on George Akume for the coveted office of the SGF among many eminent Nigerians was a systematic and a courageous departure from the past beside being a pragmatic first step towards the development of Nigeria. This is not unexpected considering President Tinubu’s commitment to excellence and penchant for authoring lasting legacies. Akume’s appointment is quite confirmatory of Tinubu’s avowed subscription to good governance and quality representation. A popular grassroots politician, a former two terms Governor, three terms senator and a former. With a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a master’s degree in Labour Relations, Tinubu couldn’t settle for a better choice than Akume for the office of the SGF which is more or less the engine room of the government.
As a politician, SGF Akume’s name is engraved in the APC hall of fame for his laudable contributions to the growth of the party, right from its formative years to now that it has taken over as the ruling party in Nigeria. His influence went far beyond the borders of Benue State where even without his party, the APC, in power, he kept PDP on its toes and with bloodied nose all through the tragic administration of former Governor Samuel Ortom (PDP). Not even the added advantage of having Iyochia Ayu, the erstwhile despotic PDP National Chairman, could slow down the intimidating influence of SGF Akume in Benue State and the middle belt region in general. But for his resilience and perseverance, APC might’ve died a slow asphyxiating death in the in the middle belt as envisaged by Ortom and Ayu. He persevered and kept the APC house not only alive but kicking. While it lasted, he was some sort of a watering hole for members of the APC in Benue and neighboring states.
This may explain why Akume’s nomination is being celebrated across party lines in the region; a clear indication that the entire region is pleased with, expectedly, Benue State being the epicenter. For close to 2 decades Akume has been the rallying point of Benue politics with tentacles reaching the remotest enclaves of the state; touching live and making a difference. It’s not accidental that he was the first Governor to have completed two terms in office in Benue State, the state’s diversity, political complexity, intimidating opposition warlords and all. It’s with a dint of hard work, resilience, perseverance and genuine commitment to the people.
President Tinubu deserve accolades for walking his talk. When campaigning he promised to bring on board people with the experience, panache, commitment, intelligence, versatility and ability to deliver given assignments for the over all benefits of the people without compromising the best interest of Nigeria. This cap fitted Akume like a glove. Remaining a recurring decimal in the middle belt politics for decades; negotiating safely through political land mines and booby traps is a testament of Akume’s dexterity and cosmopolitanism.
Of course, good leaders don’t just fall from the sky. They are self-made; molded by self-imposed disciplinary rules and regulations. And it takes one to identify one. President Tinubu and SGF Akume could be said to be a match made in heaven. It’s a choice made on the basis of track record, trust and familiarity. President Tinubu’s obsession and or even addiction to quality service delivery must have influenced his decision to pick Sen. Akume as his SGF and no doubt there couldn’t be a better choice that could fit President Tinubu’s aspiration to rejuvenate, equip and fast track Nigeria’s journey to nationhood.
SGF Akume is not one to learn on the job having successfully ruled Benue State, a miniature Nigeria, for two terms without hitches and with a very enviable record to show for it. A 3-term stint in the upper chamber of the National Assembly and a 4-year ministerial term must have equipped him with the versatility needed for the job of an SGF. His appointment is indicative of President Tinubu’s dedication to all Nigerians, regardless of their religious, regional or ethnic backgrounds. It reinforces his steadfastness in his pledge to unite Nigeria and ensure equal quality representation. President Tinubu deserve commendation for maintaining his trademark commitment to meritocracy. It’s a deviation from the primordial tendencies that kept Nigeria moving in a hopeless circle of retardation.
Now that President Tinubu is done with perhaps the trickiest appointment; that of the SGF, and both he and SGF Akume look set to hit the ground running, I think Nigerians should put behind inimical tendencies of exploiting religious and regional fault lines to resolve political setbacks to have enough time and energy to probe governance and ensure quality service delivery. SGF Akume is already appointed and it’s very obvious he’s here to stay. Then, it’s going to be more beneficial for all and sundry to rally behind and support the new SGF to give his best shot ever for Nigeria. As it was before, so it is today; Nigeria is for us to make of mar. Certainly we could make Nigeria by intelligent and patriotic choices or mar it by silly egocentric choices.
The newly sworn-in Tinubu administration inherited myriad of problems mostly leftovers from the days of the PDP which the immediate past administration couldn’t resolve satisfactorily President Tinubu is leaving no one in doubt about his determination to make Nigeria a better place than he met it. His pragmatic approach to biting issues like the swift decision of fuel subsidy removal is indicative of his excellent grasp of the Nigerian situation. We owe it to Nigeria to support him and his carefully handpicked appointees.
The Concerned Christian Youth Forum has strongly denounced the ongoing violence in Nigeria’s Plateau and Benue states, describing the attacks by bandits as an “affront to natural justice” and a violation of human dignity.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the group’s convener, James Paul Adama, the forum called for an immediate end to the “relentless onslaught” against innocent civilians.
“This human carnage must stop,” Adama said, urging the government to take swift action to halt the attacks and support affected communities in their recovery and rebuilding efforts.
The group demanded that the perpetrators of these “atrocious acts” be brought to justice, stressing that all Nigerians deserve safety and security.
“The time for action is now,” the statement added.
While commending the efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies, the forum called for intensified measures to curb the violence.
“We ask that they redouble their efforts to nip this menace in the bud,” Adama said, acknowledging the sacrifices of security personnel.
“Your courage and commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of our citizens are an inspiration to us all.”
The statement also highlighted the constitutional duty of the government and security forces to ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerians, describing the violence as a threat not only to the affected communities but to the nation’s survival.
THEME: IGNITE THE FIRE
The atmosphere was electric as thousands of worshippers within and outside Kogi State gathered at Afims hotel, Oro, Obehira road for the highly anticipated event.The programme which was to start by 7p.m in the evening of Friday March 28,2025 started to have worshippers trooping at the venue around 4p.m.
The programme which was organised by professor Yusuf John Suberu featured a line of powerful men of God and gospel singers which included Bishop Steve Balogun(JP); Apostle Jide Ogunsakin; Rt.Rev.Dr.E.I Onsachi, Bishop, Anglican communion, diocese of Okene;Prophet(Dr.)Ajinomoh Anda Isaac;Rev. Isaac Ogunmola; Pastor Isaiah Alabi, General overseer of the Gospel Assembly Intercontinental; Pastor Solomon Enya, Kogi central coordinator of Peace House;Evangelist Job Apana,Kogi central CAN coordinator; Evangelist Eunice Omonayi;Pastor P-Daniel; Pastor Emerald Johnson; Minister Samuel Temitope; Evangelist Ify Obi and many others.
Another great personality who was in attendance was Dr.James Anaza Duro Joseph,provost of Kogi state college of nursing science, Obangede who represented the secretary-general of Kogi State,Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade.As a special prayer request made by the secretary-general,he(Dr.James) specifically called on professor Yusuf John Suberu to pray for the peace and progress of the state and as well the government officials.
The speakers preached messages emphasizing the importance of seeking God’s mercy in these turbulent times.Prayers for deliverance ,healing and salvation were also rendered.The night was marked by numerous deliverance ,healings and miracles.There was never a period of dull moment as different sessions of prayers,deeper worships and praises were had.
The final preaching of the Kogi night of mercy and worship was delivered by the convener of the programme,Professor Yusuf John Suberu.He preached on the topic “*Principles of igniting the fire”*. To further aid the congregational understanding,he proceeded to highlight four principles required to ignite the fire :
(1). Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness
(2). Render faithful service to God
(3). Become a radical giver
(4). Pray without ceasing.
Professor Yusuf also led the people in a powerful session of prayers.In this session of prayers, God’s power and release was made manifest, with people receiving deliverance, healings and fresh anointing.
Kogi night of mercy and worship was a divine encounter,a moment of spiritual connection and transformation.As the worshippers departed,they carried with them a renewed sense of hope and faith, knowing God’s mercy is always
available to those who seek it.
The programme also features distribution of food items to 1000 participants and a scholarship award of two hundred thousand naira (#200,000.00) to miss Ann Ochenika.Professor Yusuf assured that he will execute more scholarship awards through the Kogi central CAN and PFM.He,therefore, charged youths to be in their best behaviour so as to aid qualification for such.
The programme has been described by many to be of one of its kind in Ebira-land.It was proclaimed that never a time was a programme like this held in the land.It had in attendance over one thousand five hundred people(excluding the underaged).The hall with the gallery was totally full and had an overflow.
*To God alone be praised*
Media Team,
Kogi night of mercy and worship.
The most remarkable and halcyon spectacle of good governance in the present Republic is unarguably the government of Enugu State under the watch of Dr Peter Mbah. Ndi’Enugu are clearly unanimous in the praise and appreciation of the commitment of their Governor to make real the promises of democracy.
The Peter Mbah led government has redefined governance in so many ways that every so often the trophy cabinet of the State government calls for regular review and rework as monstrous accolades stream in almost on a daily basis. Enugu State has become the lead example of exemplary and servant oriented leadership. And Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah is without an ounce of doubt a homo sequentum.
Have you googled Enugu State to see the remarkable strides in Agriculture? Have you searched the internet to see the monstrous strides in Infrastructural Development? Have you heard of the unassailable commitment of the Enugu State Government to the protection of lives and property? Have you heard of the Digitalised Control Centre that works for seamless synergy between Security Agencies in the State? Have you seen the beautiful Smart Schools that define the commitment of the Enugu State Government to Education? Have you read about the monumental investment of Enugu State in Healthcare, and the Healthcare Centres springing up across the Wards in Enugu State?
Have you seen the Cargo Wing of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport targeted at opening new frontiers for business? Have you seen the ongoing International Conference Centre and the Five Star Hotel project, with the profound intention of making Enugu State the go-to destination for Business, and for leisure? Have you seen the commitment of the State to Arts, Culture and Tourism? Have you seen the resurgence of Pipe Borne Water in Enugu State, and are you aware that no State in Nigeria comes near Enugu State in the restoration of Pipe Borne Water? Have you seen the level of work on both urban and rural roads that has turned Enugu State into a huge construction site? And have you seen the olympic strides of the State government in Skill Acquisition, Human Capital Development, and Empowerment? Do you think that the popular refrain THE FUTURE IS HERE is masturbatory? Folks, without a shade of equivocation Enugu State is the lucid manifestation of the greatness that responsible and responsive leadership engenders.
Within the past 6 months the Enugu State Government have been first in almost every parameter and sector of governance. Peter Mbah has been Governor of the Year. Enugu State has led the pack in Infrastructural development. Enugu State tops the chart in Healthcare, in Education, and in the commitment to the Security of lives and property. Yes, laudable laurels and trophies litter the Enugu tapestry, thanks to the unalterable commitment of the Governor to make Enugu State profoundly better than he met it.
The awesome strides of the Peter Mbah led government of Enugu State are so manifest that even the fiercest opponent of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah in the 2023 contestation for the high office of Governor, Barrister Chijioke Edeoga of the Labour Party has returned to the Governor’s Party, the Peoples Democratic Party PDP. And in doing so, Edeoga was emphatic about the great strides of the Peter Mbah led government. Edeoga was forthright in his call for Ndi’Enugu to support ‘the man who knows the way’, and ‘to stand with the man whose commitment to an Enugu State that works for all is without blemish.’
Edeoga’s return to the PDP and his profound testimony about the man that is consistently Making A Difference MAD in Enugu State enamours; and very striking however is the recent endorsement of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah by the leaders of Nsukka Community, and take note that Nsukka is arguably the largest voter demography in Enugu State.
In endorsing and applauding the Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah led administration, the Nsukka Leaders noted that they are overwhelmed by the strides of the government in Infrastructural Development, in Healthcare, in Education, in Urban and Rural Development, in Skill Acquisition and Human Capital Development, and in improving the general well-being of Ndi’Enugu.
Need I tell you that as the endorsements stream in, the humble People’s Governor of Enugu State has remained focused, Unfazed and committed to the promises that he made to Ndi’Enugu during the 2023 campaign season. To Governor Peter Mbah there is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off. And he is unwilling to allow the blinding lights of sycophants and Court-jesters derail his vision and dream of an Enugu State that meets the standards of a highly progressive world. To Peter Mbah The FUTURE IS HERE.
And to all advocates of good governance and servant oriented leadership I commend the watchman in the saddle at the Government House in Enugu, knowing that when in unison we applaud all vistas of good governance on our political kaleidoscope, we shall be redefining thereto the moral and ideological minimums of leadership in Nigeria.
To Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah a heart of love and admiration. And to Ndi’Enugu I say, The Future Is Here.
Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr
Convener COUNTRYFIRST MOVT.
A Good Governance Advocacy Group.