The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and transparency, emphasizing that leadership in public service is about stewardship, accountability, and impact. Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, made this assertion during the opening ceremony of a mandatory training program for chief executive officers of federal government parastatals and agencies.
Akume, represented by Professor Simon Okoya, stated that President Bola Tinubu directed him to remind the CEOs that they hold office in trust for the people and must demonstrate integrity, transparency, and commitment to service. The president’s administration, he said, remains accountable to Nigerians and will effect necessary changes where any CEO is found wanting.
The training program, held at the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) in Badagry, Lagos, aims to equip CEOs with the requisite competencies to deliver on the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2025. The program’s theme, “Lead wholly, reform, deliver, renewed,” reflects the urgency of the moment, as Nigeria’s public sector is defined by rising citizen expectations.
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, commended the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for pursuing the service-wide implementation of the mandatory training program. She assured that the program would bring development to the ancient border community of Badagry.
Lawmaker Prince Sesi Whingan, representing Badagry Federal Constituency, described ASCON as the pride of Badagry, exposing the town to the world through its workshops and training programs. He urged the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to facilitate the second phase of the Badagry-Seme expressway.
The Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, highlighted the importance of training and retraining, especially at the leadership level, to develop new skills, enhance decision-making, and promote professionalism. The Director-General of ASCON, Mrs. Funke Adepoju, said the program underscores the federal government’s commitment to equipping top executives with the requisite competencies to deliver on national priorities.
The mandatory training program is a strategic platform for leadership renewal, peer learning, and performance accountability, ensuring that CEOs possess the leadership and governance competencies to translate national priorities into institutional results. The program reinforces the government’s commitment to building a competent, dependable, and digitally empowered public service.