Senator George Akume, SGF
“Leadership transition is an essential moment for institutional continuity, renewal, and strengthening. Today, we witness such a moment—guided by order, responsibility, and respect for due process.”
These were the words of Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation & Chairman of NEITI at his Goodwill message during the exit of outgoing Executive Secretary, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji.
Akume commended Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji for his exemplary service over the past five years. Dr. Orji brought to NEITI a deep commitment to transparency, institutional reform, and stakeholder collaboration.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) was of the opinion that Dr. Orji leadership delivered historic milestones, including acquisition and relocation to NEITI’s permanent office, expansion of industry reporting, strengthened public disclosures, improved inter-agency partnerships, and enhanced stakeholder confidence in the EITI process. His tenure stands as a reference point for integrity, professionalism, and transformative public service.
In his words: “I approved Dr. Orji’s voluntary request to proceed on his well-deserved terminal leave with benefits. Mr. President extends his appreciation for Dr. Orji’s meritorious service to the nation. As he hands over the reins of leadership today, I wish to place on record, on behalf of the President and the entire NSWG, our profound gratitude for his dedication, patriotism, and impactful stewardship. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”
Akume congratulated the new Executive Secretary, Hon. Musa Sarkin Adar, on his well-deserved appointment. The President and the NSWG have full confidence in his capacity to consolidate on the achievements recorded and to steer NEITI toward even greater heights.
Hon. Adar brings a wealth of leadership experience, a strong legislative background, and a deep understanding of governance issues—qualities that will further strengthen NEITI’s work and advance Nigeria’s commitment to transparency and accountability in the extractive sector.
The mandate before NEITI remains clear: to strengthen openness, ensure responsible resource management, and sustain public trust. I call on the Board, management, staff, civil society, the private sector, and development partners to unite behind the new Executive Secretary to ensure continued progress.
“Together, we will continue to advance Nigeria’s extractive governance agenda in line with global EITI Standards.”
The SGF wished the outgoing and incoming Executive Secretaries success, wisdom, and God’s guidance. “May NEITI continue to thrive as a model of integrity and good governance in our public institutions.”
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