The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has emphasised the need for accountability across the three tiers of government, describing it as a critical requirement for sustainable national development.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Information and Public Relations in the SGF Office, Segun Imohiosen, Akume stated this on Saturday during a church thanksgiving service held to mark his 72nd birthday at St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Gboko, Benue State.
He said national development cannot be achieved in isolation, stressing that it requires cooperation and synergy among the federal, state and local governments.
“National development is a collective responsibility. It requires the commitment and synergy of the federal, state and local governments working together for the good of the people,” the SGF said.
Akume urged state and local governments to be accountable and ensure the judicious utilisation of increased federal allocations being received under the administration of President Bola Tinubu, noting that the funds should translate into tangible development at the grassroots.
“The resources coming to the states and local governments must be used transparently and wisely so that development can truly reach the grassroots,” he said.
While expressing gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve both his people and the nation through his career in the civil service and politics, Akume said he had been able to empower many individuals despite limited resources.
“I thank God for using me, even with the little resources available, to touch lives and empower people in different ways,” he said.
The SGF also called on Nigerians to continue to support the administration of President Tinubu, particularly its focus on infrastructure development across the country.
“I urge Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he works towards an infrastructure revolution that will benefit the entire nation,” Akume added.
Speaking on behalf of the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Gboko, Most Rev. William Amove Avenya, the Bishop of the Diocese of Katsina-Ala, Most Rev. Isaac Dugu, described the SGF’s 72nd birthday as significant for both Benue State and Nigeria.
“This 72nd birthday marks a turning point for the good of Benue State and the nation at large,” Dugu said.
He urged prominent sons and daughters of Benue State holding positions of authority to set aside political differences and work together for the development of the state.
“Regardless of political divides, those in leadership must unite for the progress and development of Benue State,” he said.
