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