The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, stating that the current administration remains accountable to Nigerians. Akume made this assertion during the opening ceremony of the Mandatory Training Programme for Chief Executive Officers of Federal Government Parastatals and Agencies at the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) in Lagos.
The programme, which aims to enhance the leadership and governance competencies of chief executives, is part of the government’s efforts to implement its Renewed Hope Agenda. Akume, represented by Prof. Simon Okoya, emphasized that public officers hold office in trust for the people and must demonstrate integrity, transparency, and commitment to service. He also reminded the chief executives that they are the points of contact between the government and citizens, and their efficiency and responsiveness shape the public’s perception of the government.
The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, led by Didi Walson-Jack, has been commended for its role in implementing the training programme. Walson-Jack stated that the programme reflects the government’s commitment to building a competent and effective public service. The two-week leadership training programme is designed to equip chief executives with the necessary skills to deliver on the government’s priorities and promises.
The Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, highlighted the importance of training and retraining for public servants, particularly at the leadership level. He emphasized that chief executives occupy a critical space in the architecture of governance and must reflect excellence, integrity, accountability, and empathy in their leadership.
The Director-General of ASCON, Mrs. Funke Adepoju, noted that the college has evolved into a Centre of Excellence for Executive Capacity Development, aligning learning with governance outcomes. The Mandatory Training Programme is a strategic platform for leadership renewal, peer learning, and performance accountability, ensuring that chief executives possess the necessary competencies to translate national priorities into institutional results.
The programme has been welcomed by local stakeholders, including Prince Sesi Whingan, the lawmaker representing Badagry Federal Constituency, who described ASCON as a pride of Badagry. Whingan urged the government to facilitate the completion of the Badagry-Seme expressway, which has stalled. The government’s commitment to accountability and effective governance is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s development, with the training programme playing a crucial role in equipping chief executives with the necessary skills to drive change.