Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE FEDERATION

PRESS STATEMENT

Sallah: Akume Urges Nigerians to Embrace Peace, Unity
... Calls for Sacrifice, National Cohesion

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume (CON), has extended warm felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and beyond as they celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir festival, urging the citizens to embrace peace, sacrifice and national unity.

In his Sallah message issued on Tuesday, Senator Akume described the occasion as a period of deep spiritual reflection, compassion and devotion to the values exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim. He called on Nigerians to use the celebration to pray for the peace, stability and progress of the country.

The SGF noted that Eid-el-Kabir symbolises obedience, selflessness and faith in God, virtues he said remain essential in fostering harmony and strengthening national cohesion at a time the nation faces socio-economic and security challenges.

Akume also commended Muslims for their contributions to national development and peaceful coexistence, stressing that Nigeria’s diversity should continue to serve as a source of strength rather than division.

He urged citizens to promote tolerance and mutual understanding irrespective of ethnic, religious or political differences.

The SGF further appealed to Nigerians to support the policies and programmes of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, stressing that ongoing reforms are already yielding positive results for the country. He said the government remains committed to improving the welfare and living conditions of citizens.

He encouraged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged during the celebration, adding that the spirit of sacrifice associated with Eid-el-Kabir should inspire greater care for vulnerable members of society.

Akume prayed for continued peace, unity and prosperity in Nigeria, while wishing Muslims a joyful and fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration marked by happiness, safety and renewed hope for the nation.

Signed:

Yomi Odunuga,

Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to Secretary to the Government of the Federation

26-05-2026

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE FEDERATION

PRESS RELEASE

AKUME RALLIES SUPPORT FOR PRESIDENT TINUBU'S RE-ELECTION

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, CON, has called on stakeholders, party faithful, and Nigerians to support the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing the administration's commitment to national development and economic reforms in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Sen. Akume, who was welcomed separately by mammoth crowd of APC delegates, party stakeholders and supporters at the venues for the presidential primaries in Wanune, Makurdi South and Makurdi Central of Benue state, emphasized the need for their overwhelming support to President Tinubu to ensure his victory in the forthcoming election, saying it's their mandate and they should not be deceived by naysayers as President Tinubu means well for Nigeria.

He stated that the achievements recorded by the administration within a relatively short period demonstrate the President's determination to reposition Nigeria for sustainable growth and long-term prosperity, and this call for our collective support to enable him actualise the Renewed Hope Agenda."President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown courage and commitment in implementing policies and reforms aimed at building a stronger and more resilient nation. This is a period that requires support, cooperation, and unity of purpose from all stakeholders," Akume stated.

Speaking on educational reforms, the SGF highlighted the establishment of the Nigerian Education Fund (NELFUND) as a landmark programme and one of the first of its kind in Africa, which is a clear demonstration of Federal Government's commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian student has access to quality education and opportunities for advancement.

Speaking at Makurdi Central, Sen. Jack Tilley-Gyado said the purpose of meeting with them was to mobilize them for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure his victory at the APC Presidential Primaries to enable him continue with the Renewed Hope Agenda, assuring their unflinching support to Sen. George Akume and the President.

Signed:
Chris Ugwuegbulam
Head, Information & Public Relations Department
23rd May, 2026

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE FEDERATION

PRESS STATEMENT

Akume Calls for Unity in Benue APC Ahead of Presidential Primary

...Decries Diversion of Materials During APC Primaries

Ahead of Saturday’s presidential primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume (CON), has underscored the importance of unity within the party in Benue State.

He also expressed displeasure over the alleged diversion of materials during the party’s primaries held in the state earlier in the week.

Senator Akume spoke to reporters on Friday when he landed at the Makurdi Airport ahead of the APC presidential primary billed for Saturday.

A mammoth crowd had come to the airport to welcome him.

The SGF urged party members and stakeholders in the state to place the collective interest of the APC above personal ambitions, noting that internal cohesion would be critical to the party’s success in future elections.

He appealed to aggrieved aspirants and their supporters to embrace dialogue and reconciliation, insisting that disagreements arising from the primaries should not weaken the party’s structure in the state.

He said: "The presidential primaries are taking place tomorrow (Saturday). We're here to mobilise support for our dear president. He's doing very well. I've told him repeatedly, that he has no problem in Benue State. In this country, his performance, his commitment to patriotism, inclusive nature of government all speak in his favour.

"In the democracy you must always have some opposing voices but the truth is that his work is remarkable. His work has been approved by most Nigerians and we are very sure come tomorrow our people are going to vote massively for Mr President".

Akume further described reports of the diversion of electoral materials during the primaries as disturbing, warning that such actions could undermine confidence in the party’s internal democratic process.

He called on party officials and security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure that those found culpable are held accountable, while assuring members that efforts were underway to guarantee a credible and transparent process going forward.

His words: "I was not here during the last election. I received so many reports about diversion of materials among other things, but I wasn't here so I don't want to comment so much about that. What I want to say is this, I want the APC to be a united family. This was how we intended it to be. Those of us who were the founding fathers of the party we don't want factions in our party you. We're very sure that come 2027, Mr President will get back to the Villa".

He appealed to supporters to remain peaceful and turn out in large numbers to participate in the primary election for the party’s presidential candidate.

Yomi Odunuga,

Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to Secretary to the Government of the Federation

22-05-2026

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE FEDERATION

PRESS STATEMENT

Tinubu Directs MDAs to Embrace Technology as 38 Ministries Adopt E-Workflow

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced that 38 ministries and extra-ministerial departments have now transitioned to a secure paperless workflow system, even as he declared that Nigeria’s civil service was undergoing a major digital transformation,

Speaking while declaring open the International Civil Service Conference 2026 in Abuja on Wednesday, Tinubu said the era of “manual inefficiency” in government operations must come to an end as the country pushes for a faster, technology-driven and more accountable public service.

Speaking through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, CON, the President said the reforms carried out under his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda were beginning to yield measurable results, noting that the civil service had moved “from aspiration to ex*****on, and from ex*****on to measurable impact.”

According to him, the adoption of end-to-end electronic workflow systems across dozens of ministries signals Nigeria’s determination to build a modern bureaucracy capable of driving investment, innovation and inclusive growth.

“When we spoke of digitalisation in 2025, some may have considered it an ambition for the distant future. Today, with 38 Ministries and Extra-Ministerial Departments operating on a secure, paperless and end-to-end electronic workflow system, we are sending a clear message: Nigeria is building a public service that enables progress,” he said.

Tinubu directed all ministries, departments and agencies to deepen digital work processes and embrace technology in service delivery, insisting that public institutions must become more responsive to citizens’ needs.

“The era of manual inefficiency must give way to a culture of speed, transparency, data-driven decision-making and citizen-centred service,” he stated.

The President also revealed that the ongoing Personnel Audit and Skills Gap Analysis authorised by his administration was nearing completion, adding that government was identifying competency gaps and repositioning workers for 21st-century governance.

Tinubu linked the reforms to the broader digital infrastructure agenda of his government, including Project BRIDGE — Building Resilient Digital Infrastructure for Growth — which he recently promoted at the Africa CEO Forum in Rwanda.

He said Nigeria was opening up its digital infrastructure ecosystem to investors and development partners as part of efforts to boost jobs, innovation, connectivity and public sector efficiency.

The President commended the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, for driving reforms under the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2021–2025.

He particularly praised the integration of innovative tools such as Service-Wise GPT, describing it as evidence of what could be achieved through disciplined leadership and institutional commitment.

Tinubu said the conference should serve as a “results laboratory” for deeper governance reforms, urging participants to focus on making reforms irreversible and strengthening accountability across public institutions.

Yomi Odunuga

Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to Secretary to the Government of the Federation

20-05-2026

PRESS RELEASE

DR. KANA CALLS FOR STRONGER CONTINENTAL COLLABORATION ON DIGITAL PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The Permanent Secretary, General Services Office (GSO), Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, has emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among African nations in building robust Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) systems that will drive inclusive governance, economic growth, innovation, and citizen-centered service delivery across the continent.

Dr. Kana made this known in his goodwill message at the High-Level Continental Engagement with the theme: "Building African Digital Foundations Together", which was organized by Galaxy Backbone Ltd in collaboration with Co-Develop, Smart Africa, and MicroSave Consulting on Tuesday 19th May, 2026 in Abuja.

Addressing distinguished representatives of governments, development partners, digital institutions, and stakeholders from across Africa, Dr. Kana described the gathering as a strategic platform for shaping the future of Africa's digital economy and strengthening the foundations required for sustainable development. He stressed that the continent's opportunity extends beyond merely digitizing existing systems to building a uniquely African digital future anchored on collaboration, inclusion, trust, and scalability.

According to him, Digital Public Infrastructure has increasingly become a central pillar for national development and global competitiveness, noting that nations making significant progress in innovation, financial inclusion, digital governance, healthcare, education systems, and artificial intelligence are doing so on the strength of resilient digital ecosystems.
"Digital identity systems, interoperable payment rails, trusted data exchange frameworks, and secure digital platforms are no longer optional national assets; they have become essential instruments of state capability and economic resilience," he stated.

Dr. Kana particularly commended Galaxy Backbone alongside institutions such as the National Identity Management Commission and the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System for their contributions to Nigeria's evolving Digital Public Infrastructure ecosystem and their support for the Federal Government's digital transformation agenda. He added that over the years, Galaxy Backbone has continued to demonstrate commitment to enabling secure digital infrastructure, supporting public sector modernization, and improving service delivery through technology-driven initiatives.

He welcomed the drive toward developing a unified African Digital Public Infrastructure road-map over the next three to five years. He said the proposed framework would assist countries in identifying common priorities, encouraging reusable digital building blocks, reducing implementation costs, and strengthening local innovation ecosystems.

He further emphasized the importance of moving beyond isolated conversations to practical and coordinated implementation efforts through pilot projects, shared platforms, and collaborative systems that could support broader continental interoperability in digital identity, payment systems, trade facilitation, healthcare, education, and data governance.

Speaking on the implications of emerging technologies, Dr. Kana noted that Africa's readiness for the era of Artificial Intelligence would depend heavily on strong Digital Public Infrastructure.
"There can be no meaningful Artificial Intelligence ecosystem without strong digital public infrastructure. Trusted data systems, digital identity frameworks, connectivity infrastructure, and interoperable platforms remain essential prerequisites for building ethical and inclusive AI systems that serve public interest objectives," he said.

While reaffirming the commitment of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to innovation and regional cooperation, he assured that Nigeria remains committed to working with African partners and the international community toward building a digitally connected, inclusive, and prosperous continent. Kana also stressed the importance of maintaining public trust in digital systems through governance frameworks that promote transparency, accountability, accessibility, security, and inclusion.

In his address, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Galaxy Backbone Ltd, Prof. Ibrahim Adeyanju, stated that the event provides an important opportunity to deepen collaboration among African countries, strengthen partnerships, and share practical approaches to building resilient and inclusive digital ecosystems capable of driving economic growth and improving public service delivery.

Signed:
Chris Ugwuegbulam
Head, Information & Public Relations
19th May, 2026

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE FEDERATION

PRESS RELEASE

AKUME TASKS EXECUTIVE HEADS, GOVERNING BOARDS OF MDAs ON GOOD GOVERNANCE AND HARMONIOUS WORKING RELATIONSHIP

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, CON, has charged Chairmen, Chief Executive Officers and members of the Governing Board of Federal Parastatals, Agencies and Commissions to uphold the principles of good governance, accountability, integrity and effective service delivery in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

SGF, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni gave the charge during the Induction Programme for Chief Executive Officers, Chairmen and Governing Board Members of Parastatals, Agencies and Commissions on Monday, 18 May 2026 in Abuja.

Senator Akume stated that the Induction Programme was designed to deepen participants' understanding of emerging government policies, processes and procedures, while equipping them with the requisite knowledge to effectively discharge their mandates. He said that the Public Service remains the principal vehicle for policy implementation and service delivery in Nigeria, stressing that Parastatals, Agencies and Commissions were established to carry out specific functions within the framework of government policies and national priorities.

He expressed concern over the increasing instances of conflicts and misunderstandings regarding the roles and responsibilities of Boards and Chief Executive Officers, noting that such situations have negatively affected productivity and institutional harmony in some agencies.The SGF explained that Governing Boards are responsible for providing policy direction and strategic oversight, while Chief Executive Officers are charged with the day-to-day administration and management of their respective institutions.

Senator Akume emphasized that Governing Boards must operate within the limits of their statutory mandates and should refrain from direct involvement in daily administration. He further reminded Board Members that their responsibilities are primarily policy-oriented and oversight-driven.

While urging Chairmen and Board Members to familiarize themselves with the enabling laws and operational guidelines governing their institutions, the SGF outlined the critical oversight responsibilities of Boards to include ensuring that the long-term interests of the Federal Government are protected, promoting sustainable and cost-effective institutional practices, strengthening internal controls and risk management systems, monitoring management performance and supporting strategic development initiatives.

He also 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. According to him, this will enable Government to assess compliance with extant rules and determine the level of harmony and effectiveness in institutional operations.

Senator Akume urged all appointees to justify the confidence reposed in them through dedicated service, professionalism and commitment to the values of equity, transparency and accountability, while reaffirming the commitment and support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration towards strengthening institutions and improving governance structures for enhanced service delivery to Nigerians.

Signed:
Chris Ugwuegbulam
Head, Information & Public Relations
18th May, 2026

PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS HON. ADEDAYO BENJAMINS-LANIYI AS DG/CEO OF THE MARYAM BABANGIDA NATIONAL CENTRE FOR WOMEN DEVELOPMENT

....CONSTITUTES MEMBERS OF THE GOVERNING COUNCIL

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved the appointment of Hon. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi as the Director-General /Chief Executive Officer of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development (MBNCWD) and the members of the Governing Council for an initial term of four (4) years.

In a letter signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, and issued by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, the appointment, which takes effect from April 18, 2026, is in accordance with the provisions of Section 7 (1) and (3) of the National Centre for Women Development (Amendment) Act, 2023.

President Tinubu also approved the constitution of the members of the Governing Council of the Centre as follows:
Princess Joan Jummai Idonije, Chairman; Governing Council.
Other members are:
Ms. Lois Auta,
Hon. Jamila Sarki,
Aisha Baiyee,
Hon. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas, and
Hon. Princess Anne Agom-Eze.

While congratulating the Director-General and members of the Governing Council on their appointments, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended his best wishes to them.

Signed:
Chris Ugwuegbulam
Head, Information & Public Relations
14th May, 2026

The President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni and the representative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume (CON) during the swearing-in ceremony of Museveni at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala on Tuesday.

PRESS RELEASE

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPOINTS MAJOR GENERAL FAMADEWA (RTD) AS SPECIAL ADVISER ON HOMELAND SECURITY

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved the appointment of Major General Adeyinka A. Famadewa (Rtd) as Special Adviser on Homeland Security, in recognition of his exceptional record of service, strategic expertise, and outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s national security architecture.

In a circular signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, which was issued by the Permanent Secretary General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, the appointment underscores the commitment of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to strengthening internal security coordination, enhancing intelligence-driven operations, and deepening inter-agency collaboration in addressing emerging security threats across the country.

Major General Famadewa (Rtd) is a highly decorated retired General with over three decades of distinguished military and intelligence service spanning national security strategy, intelligence fusion, counter-terrorism operations, and international security diplomacy. His career reflects a rare blend of operational excellence, strategic foresight, and institutional leadership in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and national interests.

As Principal General Staff Officer to the National Security Adviser at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) from 2015 to 2021, he played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s modern intelligence coordination framework. He spearheaded the establishment of the Intelligence Fusion Centre (IFC) at ONSA, creating an integrated multi-agency intelligence platform that brought together the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Armed Forces to improve national threat assessment and strategic response coordination.

Following his retirement from active military service, Major General Famadewa (Rtd) served as Senior Research Fellow at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja, where he continued to provide strategic thought leadership on policing, civil-security cooperation, and national security reform. His scholarly contributions include the widely acclaimed monograph titled “Policing and National Security in Nigeria,” which offers practical frameworks for strengthening civil-security collaboration.

President Tinubu expressed confidence that the appointment of Major General Famadewa (Rtd) will further enhance the administration’s efforts toward achieving a safer and more secure Nigeria through improved coordination of homeland security initiatives, intelligence integration, and proactive risk management.

He also urged him to deploy his wealth of experience, professionalism, and strategic insight in advancing national security objectives and supporting the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

E- Signed:
Chris Ugwuegbulam
Head, Information & Public Relations
11th May, 2026.

PRESS RELEASE

WARRENS, AMINU ASSUME DUTY AS PERMANENT SECRETARIES IN OSGF

Mrs. Bekearedebo Augusta Warrens and Mr. Sani Yargaya Aminu have assumed duty as Permanent Secretaries of the Political & Economic Affairs Office (PEAO) and the Special Services Office (SSO) in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).

The brief handover ceremonies were held separately at the OSGF.

Welcoming the new appointees on behalf of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, urged them to work harmoniously with the management team and key stakeholders. He stressed that collaboration is critical to delivering on their statutory and assigned mandates.

Mrs. Warrens pledged to work in synergy with PEAO staff to effectively monitor, analyze, and coordinate government policies on political and economic matters. She thanked the Director Overseeing PEAO, Mr. Abia Efiok, for holding fort and promised to discharge her duties with diligence, professionalism, and commitment to national development.

Mr. Aminu committed to carrying out his responsibilities in SSO with diligence, integrity, and loyalty to the nation. He called for the full support of staff in formulating, coordinating, and implementing government security policies, and pledged to collaborate with relevant stakeholders for effective delivery.

In their farewell remarks, the outgoing Permanent Secretary, SSO, Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma, and Mr. Efiok thanked the management and staff for their support during their tenure. They urged staff to extend the same cooperation to the new Permanent Secretaries.

E-signed:
Chris Ugwuegbulam
Head, Information & Public Relations
7th May, 2026.