New SGF, Sen. George Akume sworn in

By Abiodun OBA

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, has been sworn in.

The two-term former Benue State Governor and an All Progressives Congress (APC) leader succeeded Mr Boss Mustapha.

The swearing-in ceremony was conducted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It was held at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Wednesday morning.

It was witnessed by some serving and former Governors.

After taking the Oath of Allegiance and Oath of Office on Wednesday, the SGF assured President Bola Tinubu that he would not disappoint the country.

“It is an honour to be chosen to serve in this exalted position out of over 200 million Nigerians. It is a challenge to serve in line with the oaths I have taken today. I assure Nigerians I will do my best and I will not disappoint the President.

“I will not disappoint this country; I will not disappoint my party. I believe Nigerians will find fulfilment in my responsibility as I discharge my duties,” Akume told reporters after his inauguration.

Among those who witnessed the ceremony were Vice President Kashim Shettima; Senate President Ahmed Lawan; Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Benue Governor Fr. Hyacinth Alia.

Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan and wife of the new SGF, Regina Akume, also witnessed the event.

Akume, 69 governed Benue between 1999 and 2007 before going to the Senate, representing Benue North West between 2007 and 2015.

He was appointed Minister of Special Duties by President Buhari in 2019.

Akume graduated from the University of Ibadan where he bagged a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a master’s degree in Labour Relations.

His appointment was announced on Friday by President Tinubu.