Akume’s appointment will fast track development, add value to governance – GDD, others

Below is an excerpt of a press conference organized by the below mentioned organizations:

WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE BY THE GUARDIANS OF DEMOCRACY AND DEVELOPMENT, OTHER CIVIL SOCIETY AND NATIONAL/REGIONAL YOUTH GROUPS
AKUME’S APPOINTMENT WILL FAST TRACK DEVELOPMENT AND ADD VALUE TO GOVERNANCE.

The Guardians of Democracy and Development alongside Coalition of Youth Groups in Nigeria (CYGN) which comprise of The Arewa Youth for Peace, Oodua youth League, South East Patriotic Front and United Middle Belt Development Forum herein commend the nomination of Sen. George Akume as Minister of the Federal Cabinet. Judging from his stellar track records and antecedents, we are sure his appointment will add value to the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in the light of his vast experiences.
As a collection of nationalist and pro democracy groups in Nigeria which has monitored our democratic voyage vis-à-vis good governance indices, we can boldly state that contrary to the impression that President Buhari’s cabinet is made up of only politicians, the likes of Sen Akume we know are coming with decades of rich experience as a civil servant, administrator and legislator. We also have confidence that the blend of his knowledge will be a sure plus in any Ministry he will be assigned to.

Available records show that Sen. Akume served in the civil service and rose to become a permanent secretary before retiring to venture into politics. In politics, he was Governor of Benue State for two terms. It is on record that the infrastructure development the state witnessed during his era remains unbeaten. The state university teaching hospital, Judges quarters, State Legislators quarters, Makurdi industrial layout, massive land reclamation and erosion control projects, owner occupier housing estates amongst several other projects that stand today as landmarks in the state were executed by Sen Akume.

Records also show that Benue state only became known for non-payment of salaries after Akume exited the government house, Makurdi.
As Senator for three terms, Akume further proved to be a patriot as he was counted as one who supported national unity and development. He also proved to be a worthy Party man. Therefore, it is not out of place that President Muhammadu Buhari has found him worthy for appointment as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
A discerning assessment will show that Sen. Akume shares some similarities with President Buhari as he has not used the privileged offices he has occupied to amass wealth for himself. It is on record that Akume remains one of the few former governors that has no allegations of corruption hanging around his neck despite the thick conspiracies by some political elites in his home state. As observers of public servants, we make bold to say Sen. Akume is a round peg in a round hole.

While applaud our dear President Muhammadu Buhari for the speed and finesse put into consideration in selecting a Team he has steadfast confidence in, we maintain confidence that economic growth, expansion, national development and security will take the fore for the good of all in view of the rich mix of experienced leaders (technocrats and patriotic politicians alike) who are sure to bring their best to the plinth of supporting Mr. President in the arduous but surmountable task of moving Nigeria to the Next Level.

The records show that the first tenure of the Buhari government rescued Nigeria from the hard biting pangs of economic recession. The hopes and expectations of the Masses are high for economic growth and a sustainable livelihood. In this respect, Sen. Akume comes handy as trusted Team member who can assist Mr. President in ensuring that development percolates to the grassroots. We are confident that Senator will be that good player in fast tracking development and economic growth judging from his antecedents. We join all Nigerians in celebrating this great patriot as we look forward to better days ahead.

Parrot. Solomon Adodo

Coordinator for Coalition.