Akume tasks NUPRC, NALDA boards on accountability, national impact

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has urged the newly inaugurated boards of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) to deliver with accountability, innovation, and national purpose. Speaking in Abuja during the separate inaugurations, Akume stressed that strong corporate governance must underpin […]

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has urged the newly inaugurated boards of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) to deliver with accountability, innovation, and national purpose.

Speaking in Abuja during the separate inaugurations, Akume stressed that strong corporate governance must underpin the work of the NUPRC Board, under the chairmanship of Senator Magnus Abe.

He said the body carries the responsibility of ensuring transparency, regulatory independence, and effective collaboration with stakeholders in managing Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector.

He noted that the Board’s role was central to boosting investor confidence, improving revenue generation, and ensuring sustainable development.

Akume added that integrity and strict adherence to the law must guide all decisions, as public trust and national interest depend on the Board’s stewardship. He linked their responsibilities to the broader reform agenda of the current administration, which prioritises institutional strength and economic stability.

On food security, the SGF turned attention to NALDA to be under the chairmanship of Senator Kabiru Barkiya, describing agriculture as a critical pathway to economic diversification and rural transformation. 

He commended ongoing initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Mega Farm Estates and other intervention programmes aimed at expanding production, creating jobs, and modernising farming systems.

However, he made it clear that more is expected. “As we look ahead, NALDA is expected to scale up its programmes across more states, strengthen the use of technology, and expand opportunities for youth and women in agriculture,” he said.

Akume underscored that the NALDA Board must provide the strategic direction needed to consolidate early gains and accelerate impact, particularly in tackling poverty and improving food availability nationwide.