The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, with Secretary to the Government of the Federation Sen. George Akume stating that the current administration remains answerable 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.
Represented by Prof. Simon Okoya, Akume emphasized that public officers hold office in trust for the people and must demonstrate integrity, transparency, and a commitment to service. He reminded the chief executives that they are the primary points of contact between the government and citizens, and that their efficiency and responsiveness shape public perception of the government.
The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, led by Didi Walson‑Jack, was commended for its role in implementing the training programme. Walson‑Jack said the initiative reflects the government’s dedication to building a competent and effective public service. The two‑week leadership training is designed to equip chief executives with the skills needed to deliver on the government’s priorities and promises.
Lagos State Head of Service Mr. Bode Agoro highlighted the importance of training and retraining for public servants, especially at the leadership level. He stressed that chief executives occupy a critical space in the architecture of governance and must embody excellence, integrity, accountability, and empathy. Meanwhile, ASCON Director‑General 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 serves as a strategic platform for leadership renewal, peer learning, and performance accountability, ensuring that chief executives possess the competencies required to translate national priorities into institutional results. Local stakeholders welcomed the initiative, including Prince Sesi Whingan, the lawmaker representing Badagry Federal Constituency, who described ASCON as a pride of Badagry and urged the government to complete the stalled Badagry‑Seme expressway.
Overall, the government’s commitment to accountability and effective governance is expected to positively impact the country’s development, with the training programme playing a crucial role in equipping chief executives with the skills needed to drive change.
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