President Bola Ahmed Tinubu inaugurated Senator George Akume as the new Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) in an elaborate ceremony held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The event, which took place on Wednesday, witnessed the presence of several distinguished guests, including current and former Governors.
Inside the Council Chambers of the Villa, Senator Akume took the Oath of Allegiance and Oath of Office, officially assuming his new role. Notable figures such as Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Ahmed Lawan, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan (Head of the Civil Service of the Federation), and Mrs. Regina Akume (spouse of the new SGF) were also in attendance.
The appointment of Senator George Akume as the SGF was announced by President Tinubu in a statement released on Friday. Senator Akume, a former governor of Benue State and immediate past Minister of Special Duties, was chosen for the prestigious position.
In addition to Senator Akume’s appointment, President Tinubu also named the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, as the Chief of Staff during a meeting with the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF).
Furthermore, Sen. Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, a former Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, was appointed as the Deputy Chief of Staff.
With immediate effect, Senator Akume assumes his responsibilities as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. The Tor Tiv Orcivirigh, Professor James Ortese Ayatse, expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for recognizing Senator Akume’s suitability for the esteemed appointment. The Tor Tiv Orcivirigh commended the decision, stating that it would strengthen the connection between Benue State, particularly the Tiv nation, and the broader political landscape of Nigeria.