Tag: Akume

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has said that Nigeria is aligning with global trends by strengthening its indigenous capacity to tackle emerging security challenges.

Akume made this known on Tuesday at the Second Annual Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB) Seminar and Exhibition 2025, held at the National Defence College, Abuja.

Represented by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the SGF stressed that research and development in the defence sector have become essential for Nigeria’s survival, stability, and leadership role in Africa.

He explained that in a world marked by rapidly evolving warfare and shifting security dynamics, a nation’s power and influence are driven by its military strength, backed by innovation, technological advancement, and the sophistication of its defence systems.

Akume noted that global examples have shown that the most secure nations are those that invest heavily in advanced defence technologies such as cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, and unmanned systems, urging Nigeria to continue on that path to safeguard its sovereignty and national interests.

He said, “For Nigeria, research and development in the defence sector is no longer an option but an imperative for our survival, stability, and leadership on the African continent. We are compelled to keep pace with global trends by developing indigenous capabilities that can neutralize contemporary threats.

“Through the work of the Defence Research and Development Bureau, Nigeria should demonstrate the capacity to harness local talent, indigenous knowledge, abundant natural resources, and technological innovation to provide solutions that reduce reliance on external sources.

He cited the Ezugwu Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, designed by DICON in collaboration with the Nigerian Army’s Command Engineering Depot, as a prime example of Nigeria’s investment in research and innovation paying off.

The Nigerian-made armoured vehicle has been battle-tested in the North East, proving that Nigerian ingenuity can produce world-class military hardware.

According to Akume, similar feats were the development of the indigenous Tsaigumi unmanned aerial vehicle (2018), recognized as Nigeria’s first indigenous operational drone for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance.

“These achievements strengthen our sovereignty by lessening our dependence on foreign arms and technology. When we build what we need, we control our destiny,” he said.

Akume emphasised that President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda recognizes security, a robust economy, and national unity as core elements for achieving development aspirations.

He noted that in line with this vision, the administration has already taken bold steps to enhance the capabilities and capacity of military institutions and personnel.

“This is reflected in the huge investments in military technology, fighting platforms, training of personnel, establishment of specialized military institutions, and establishment of new brigades and units.

“He has similarly enhanced the daily allowances for military rations as well as post-retirement benefits for members of the armed forces,” Akume said.

The SGF stated that the Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB), established in 2022, is a forward-thinking initiative aimed at providing strategic direction for self-reliance in defence and security, and has become a catalyst for our military-industrial complex, poised to transform Nigeria from a consumer of foreign military technology to a self-sufficient producer, potentially earning much-needed foreign exchange through international sales.

“This second annual seminar affords us the opportunity to assess, showcase, and project the critical role of research and innovation in advancing our national defence and security policy and It similarly underscores the fact that knowledge and innovation remain the bedrock of a robust home grown national defence strategy, projection of our national power and the demonstration of our commitment to a safer and more secure Nigeria. We shall also acquire the power of deterrence,” Akume said.

The SGF highlighted areas where the current administration would support DRDB in achieving this vision, including: adequate investment in security and defence infrastructure; building high-quality human capital through public-private partnerships; promoting research and collaboration across tertiary institutions; promoting indigenous technology; and establishing governance systems and structures that reward ingenuity and encourage calculated risk-taking on new ideas.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has said that the present administration would sustain the dynamics in kinetic and non-kinetic approaches in combating terrorism and other criminalities in the country.

Akume said this in his goodwill message at the launch of a book, “Scars: Nigeria’s Journey and the Boko Haram Conundrum”, authored by former Chief of Defence Staff General Lucky Irabor, in Abuja, on Friday.

He said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made tremendous progress towards a secure country in which productivity shall spur us to a Nigeria of our dreams.

Akume praised General Irabor’s distinguished service to the country, particularly as Chief of Defence Staff, which stands as a powerful testament to his patriotism, courage, and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s unity and security.

“At some of the most challenging moments in our recent history, when the fabric of our nation was threatened by insurgency and violent extremism, he stood firmly at the forefront, providing leadership that not only safeguarded lives but also strengthened the resilience of our Armed Forces and our collective will to overcome adversity,” he said.

READ ALSO: I thought Boko Haram will end under Buhari, says Jonathan

Akume described General Irabor’s new book as far more than a memoir, but “ a vital reflection on our national journey and a contribution to the ongoing discourse on peace, security, and nation-building.”

According to him, by documenting the complex realities of the Boko Haram challenge and the lessons learned in confronting it, General Irabor is enriching our national memory and equipping future generations with knowledge critical to building a safer and more united Nigeria.

“As we celebrate his diamond jubilee, we also celebrate a life devoted to service — a life that continues to inspire confidence in the strength and potential of our nation.

“On behalf of the federal government and the good people of Nigeria, I extend my warmest felicitations and gratitude to General Irabor. May this new chapter of your life bring you joy, fulfilment, and continued opportunities to contribute to our shared dream of a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria,” Akume said.

By Vincent Ikuomola and Goodness Abiodun, Abuja

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has said that Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary offers citizens an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s journey, celebrate its resilience, and renew their commitment to unity, peace, and progress.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, Akume noted that despite the milestones achieved, Nigeria remains a work in progress. He urged Nigerians to rededicate themselves to building a stronger nation.

This year’s celebration is themed: “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation.”

Akume was joined at the briefing by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Musa Dangiwa, Minister of Environment, Balarebe Abbas, Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, and Presidential media aide, Mr. Tunde Rahman.

READ ALSO; Nigeria @65: Abuja Command of NSCDC deploys 4,500 personnel

Akume said, “Today, as we stand at the threshold of another historic milestone, it is important to remind ourselves that Independence Day is more than a ceremonial date on our national calendar. It is a profound opportunity for us to reflect on how far we have come as a people, celebrate our resilience, and renew our commitment to the ideals of unity, peace, and progress which our founding fathers fought so valiantly to secure.

“At 65, Nigeria is still a work in progress. But with renewed hope, shared responsibility, and collective resolve, our best days lie ahead. Let all hands truly be on deck for a greater, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria.

“Our journey from 1960 to this moment has been marked by triumphs and trials, moments of joy and of testing, but through it all, the Nigerian spirit has remained unbroken. We have endured challenges in governance, economy, security, and social cohesion. Our true strength lies in our capacity to consistently rise after every storm, to rebuild after every setback, and forge ahead with resilience and faith in our destiny as a great nation.

Speaking on the theme of the anniversary celebration, Akume said it “is both a reminder and a charge.”

Adding, “It reminds us that the responsibility of building a greater Nigeria is not the task of government alone, but a responsibility for every citizen, comprising the youth and elder, men and women, public servants and private entrepreneurs, farmers and professionals, teachers, military and para-military, traders and artisans, as well as those at home and in the diaspora. All hands must indeed be on deck for us to realize the Nigeria we envision, which is a nation united in purpose, rich in diversity, and resolute in progress.”

He further added, “Fellow Nigerians, as we celebrate this milestone, let us reflect on our shared responsibility to build a greater nation. Government is playing its part; citizens, too, must play theirs. Let us put aside divisions and work together to achieve a Nigeria where opportunity is greater than despair, unity stronger than division, and peace stronger than conflict.”

The SGF also pointed out that the President’s visionary leadership has provided the roadmap for the transformation of the country.

“Under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Renewed Hope Agenda has become the guiding framework for transforming Nigeria. “It is an agenda that speaks to national rebirth, inclusivity, and sustainable progress, thereby providing hope for our people, especially the youth who represent the future of this nation.

“Fellow Nigerians, we are all aware of the economic reforms initiated by this administration. They are bold, sometimes difficult, but necessary steps aimed at stabilizing our economy, restoring investor confidence, and laying a foundation for long-term growth.

“Already, we are witnessing positive results. Inflationary pressures are beginning to ease, foreign investment inflows are showing renewed interest, job creation initiatives are expanding opportunities for our youth, and social intervention programmes are being strengthened to cushion the effects of reforms on vulnerable groups. These gains, though modest, are a testimony that the Renewed Hope Agenda is on course, and with perseverance, greater dividends will be realized.

With genuine dialogue and intent, restructuring of the polity can be a powerful force for uniting Nigerians, says Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume.

 Akume, at the public presentation of a book, ‘Restructuring Nigeria: The Way Forward,’ in Abuja yesterday, said this belief made President Bola Ahmed Tinubu advise that restructuring should not be seen as a political demand but a strategy for sustainable development and enduring unity.

 The SGF was represented at the event by his Senior Special Assistant, Prof. Babatunde  Benard. 

Akume said: “As we engage with restructuring, we must do so with a spirit of patriotism, dialogue, and peace; it is always better to live in peace with each other as a family than be at war with one another.

“Our strength as a nation lies not in uniformity but in unity — in harnessing our diversity for collective progress; restructuring must therefore be pursued as a unifying force, not a divisive weapon.

“Nation-building is a continuous journey, our founding fathers laid a vision of a united, peaceful, and prosperous federation where diversity is a source of strength and not division; over the decades, Nigeria has evolved, and with growth have come new challenges — in governance, resource distribution, security, and national cohesion.

READ ALSO: Priscilla Ojo, son reunite with Juma Jux in Tanzania

“It is in addressing these realities that restructuring becomes not just a political demand but a strategic imperative for sustainable development and enduring unity.

“As President Tinubu has repeatedly affirmed, restructuring is not about breaking up Nigeria; it is about strengthening the federation by devolving responsibilities, empowering subnational governments, and creating a governance structure that brings power closer to the people.” 

 The SGF noted  that many of the reforms   being implemented by the Tinubu administration point clearly in that direction.

According to him, the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market are bold fiscal steps aimed at empowering states through improved revenue allocation and stronger economic governance.

He also said the tax reforms were designed to broaden the fiscal space and ensure that federating units generate and retain more resources to serve their people.

“Equally significant are the ongoing conversations on the establishment of state police, which would deepen security at the grassroots, and the push for greater digital and infrastructure investments that enable states to become engines of growth in their own right.

“These are not isolated policy choices — they reflect a deliberate move toward a more balanced, efficient, and responsive federation,” Akume added

Commending Celestine Omehia, who authored  the book, the SGF said  that the non-partisan reflections of courage, intellect  and commitment in the book make it “a valuable contribution to ongoing national dialogue and will undoubtedly enrich policy thinking, legislative reforms, and public understanding of this critical issue.”

“As we reflect on the ideas contained in this work, let us all — leaders and citizens alike — commit to building a Nigeria where governance is efficient and inclusive, where peace and justice reign supreme, and where every citizen feels a sense of belonging; that is the Nigeria we owe ourselves and generations yet unborn,” Akume added.

In his welcome address, Omehia,who governed Rivers State from 29 May 2007 to 25 October 2007, stated that he pursued objectivity without any partisan bias in writing the book.

He urged the entire political class, members of the legal profession, the mass media and others to embrace dialogue in place of sentiments towards achieving objective restructuring of Nigeria’s governance.

The author explained that he was offering a clear, practical and thorough pathway towards achieving restructuring by addressing constitutional amendments, economic order, the justice system and other relevant issues in ways that can enhance sustainable development and benefit all Nigerians.

Omehia added that political affiliations, religious or ethnic sentiments, should not be allowed to hinder a thorough review process.

Reviewer of the 257-page book, Yemi  George (SAN),  noted that while the word ‘restructuring’ sometimes elicit trepidation because of the infusion of ethnic, political and other sentiments, Omehia leveraged his legal training and practical experience to objectively point out the way forward for Nigeria.

Personalities at the event included former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus;  former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives,   Austin Opara, and former Transport Minister  Chubuike  Amaechi.

Others were former governor of Akwa Ibom State,  Victor Attah; former PDP Board of Trustees member   Ben Obi;  Yobe State African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Adamu Waziri; former National Orientation Agency (NOA) Director-General, Mike Omeri; A senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekomhe and former Cross River State Governor, Liyel Imoke.

-…It is key to sustainable development

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and former governor of Benue state, George Akume, has said that with genuine dialogue and peaceful intentions, restructuring can be a powerful unifying force to address various groups’ long-term development concerns instead of being used to pursue divisive tendencies.

Akume stated this during the public presentation of a book, “Restructuring Nigeria: The Way Forward,” by Celestine Omehia at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja on Wednesday.

He said, “As we engage with restructuring, we must do so with a spirit of patriotism, dialogue, and peace; it is always better to live in peace with each other as a family than be at war with one another.

“Our strength as a nation lies not in uniformity but in unity — in harnessing our diversity for collective progress; restructuring must therefore be pursued as a unifying force, not a divisive weapon.”

Akume, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant, Professor Babatunde Bolaji Benard, emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s conviction that restructuring is not just a political demand but a strategic imperative for sustainable development and enduring unity.

“Nation-building is a continuous journey, our founding fathers laid a vision of a united, peaceful, and prosperous federation where diversity is a source of strength and not division; over the decades, Nigeria has evolved, and with growth have come new challenges — in governance, resource distribution, security, and national cohesion.

“It is in addressing these realities that restructuring becomes not just a political demand but a strategic imperative for sustainable development and enduring unity.

“As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has repeatedly affirmed, restructuring is not about breaking up Nigeria; it is about strengthening the federation by devolving responsibilities, empowering subnational governments, and creating a governance structure that brings power closer to the people.

“Indeed, many of the reforms already being implemented by this administration point clearly in that direction.

“The removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market are bold fiscal steps aimed at empowering states through improved revenue allocation and stronger economic governance; the ongoing tax reforms are designed to broaden the fiscal space and ensure that federating units can generate and retain more resources to serve their people.

“Equally significant are the ongoing conversations on the establishment of state police, which would deepen security at the grassroots, and the push for greater digital and infrastructure investments that enable states to become engines of growth in their own right.

Read Also: Akume tasks pension council on expanding micro pension, driving economic growth

“These are not isolated policy choices — they reflect a deliberate move toward a more balanced, efficient, and responsive federation,” Akume stated.

Commending the author, Celestine Omehia, who governed Rivers State from 29 May 2007 to 25 October 2007, Akume pointed out that the non-partisan reflections of courage, intellect, and commitment in the book make it “a valuable contribution to ongoing national dialogue and will undoubtedly enrich policy thinking, legislative reforms, and public understanding of this critical issue.”

“As we reflect on the ideas contained in this work, let us all — leaders and citizens alike — commit to building a Nigeria where governance is efficient and inclusive, where peace and justice reign supreme, and where every citizen feels a sense of belonging; that is the Nigeria we owe ourselves and generations yet unborn,” Akume added.

In his welcome address, Omehia stated that he pursued objectivity without any partisan bias in the writing of the book

Urging the nation’s entire political class, legal profession, mass media, and others to embrace dialogue in place of sentiments towards achieving objective restructuring of Nigeria’s governance, adding that America, the world’s greatest democracy, proves the need for review of governance processes by doing so twenty-seven times.

He explained that he was offering a clear, practical, and thorough pathway towards achieving the restructuring by addressing constitutional amendments, economic order, the justice system other relevant issues in ways that can enhance sustainable development and benefit all Nigerians, adding that political affiliations, religious or ethnic sentiments should not be allowed to hinder a thorough review process.

In his review of the 257-page book, Prof Yemi Akinseye George (SAN) noted that while the word ‘restructuring’ sometimes elicits trepidation because of the infusion of ethnic, political, and other sentiments, the author leveraged his legal training and practical experience to objectively point out the way forward for Nigeria.

Personalities at the event included former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Uche Secondus, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Austin Opara, former Rivers state governor, Chubuike Rotimi Amaechi, former governor of Akwa Ibom state, Obong Victor Attah, Chief Ben Obi, Yobe state ADC chieftain, Adamu Maina Waziri, former NOA Director-General, Mike Omeri, Barrister Mike Ozekomhe, and former Cross River state governor, Liyel Imoke.

…hails $60bn integrated gas, power, and rail proposal with Chinese investors

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is prioritising transformational infrastructure, economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable national development as central pillars of the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has said.

Speaking at an interactive session in Abuja on Monday with representatives of De-Sadel (Nig.) Limited and its principal financier, China Liancai Petroleum Investment Holdings Limited, Akume said the government views the proposed Integrated Gas, Power and High-Speed Rail Project as a strategic initiative that aligns with the President’s vision.

“This project, with its integrated components of high-speed rail, power generation and transmission, LNG infrastructure, and digital backbone, resonates strongly with these priorities and offers immense opportunities for inclusive growth and national integration,” the SGF stated.

The proposed venture, which is being promoted by De-Sadel (Nig.) Limited, in partnership with the Chinese firm, has already secured a Financial Support Letter from the Asia Development and Investment Bank (ADIB) valued at $60 billion.

Akume described the financing arrangement as “a reflection of the seriousness of purpose and ambition” behind the initiative.

He further commended the promoters for reaching critical milestones, including securing the approval of an Outline Business Case, a Certificate of No Objection from the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), and the conduct of Environmental and Social Impact Assessments.

According to him, these steps provide “a solid basis for further discussions” and underline the project’s potential to reshape Nigeria’s economic landscape.

Read Also: Tinubu committed to strengthening catholic schools, hospitals – Akpabio

The SGF assured stakeholders that his office would continue to coordinate engagements across relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to ensure all financial, technical, legal, and institutional requirements are addressed.

“As government, our interest is to encourage genuine partnerships that deliver tangible results, uphold transparency, and align with our long-term development vision under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

Akume described the gathering as an opportunity to deepen understanding and strengthen confidence in the project’s implementation pathway.

He emphasised that with the support of credible international investors and Nigeria’s policy reforms, the administration is determined to accelerate infrastructure delivery and economic growth across the federation.