Akume Warns MDA Boards Against Interfering In Daily Administration

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has warned governing boards of federal parastatals, agencies and commissions against interfering in the day-to-day administration of their institutions.

Akume gave the warning on Monday in Abuja during an induction programme for chief executive officers, chairpersons and governing board members of parastatals, agencies and commissions.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Head, Information and Public Relations, Chris Ugwuegbulam,  Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Akume, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, said governing boards must operate within the limits of their statutory mandates and refrain from direct involvement in daily administration.

He said the responsibilities of governing boards were primarily policy-oriented and oversight-driven.

According to him, governing boards are responsible for providing policy direction and strategic oversight. At the same time, chief executive officers are charged with the day-to-day administration and management of their respective institutions.

The SGF expressed concern about rising conflicts and misunderstandings over the roles and responsibilities of boards and chief executive officers, noting that such situations have negatively affected productivity and institutional harmony in some agencies.

Akume said the induction programme was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of emerging government policies, processes and procedures, while equipping them with the requisite knowledge to discharge their mandates effectively.

He said the public service remained the principal vehicle for policy implementation and service delivery in Nigeria.

He added that parastatals, agencies and commissions were established to carry out specific functions within the framework of government policies and national priorities.

Akume urged chairpersons and board members to familiarise themselves with the enabling laws and operational guidelines governing their institutions.

He listed the critical oversight responsibilities of boards as 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.

The SGF also disclosed that the Bureau of Public Service Reforms had been directed to conduct impact assessments on agencies whose board members and chief executives participate in the induction programme.

According to him, the assessment will enable the government to determine compliance with extant rules and the level of harmony and effectiveness in institutional operations.

Akume urged all appointees to justify the confidence reposed in them through dedicated service, professionalism, and a commitment to equity, transparency, and accountability.

He reaffirmed the commitment and support of President Bola Tinubu’s administration towards strengthening institutions and improving governance structures for enhanced service delivery to Nigerians.