George Akume

Early Life and Background

George Akume was born on December 27, 1953, in Wannune, a town located within the Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. His early life was rooted in the rich cultural tapestry of the Tiv people, one of Nigeria's largest ethnic groups, known for their agrarian traditions and strong communal bonds. Growing up in a rural setting, Akume experienced firsthand the challenges and opportunities prevalent in post-colonial Nigeria, which undoubtedly shaped his understanding of public service and community development. His formative years instilled in him a strong sense of responsibility and a deep connection to his home state of Benue, which would later become the focus of much of his political career. The values of hard work, perseverance, and community welfare were central to his upbringing, laying a crucial foundation for his future endeavors in governance.

Education

Akume's educational journey began at the Native Authority Primary School, Wannune, where he received his foundational education from 1960 to 1967. Following his primary schooling, he proceeded to the Government Secondary School, Otukpo, completing his secondary education between 1968 and 1972. Demonstrating academic promise, he pursued further studies at the Advanced Teachers' College, Makurdi, where he obtained his Higher School Certificate (HSC) from 1973 to 1975. This period of advanced pre-university education honed his analytical skills and broadened his intellectual horizons. He then gained admission to the prestigious University of Ibadan, one of Nigeria's premier tertiary institutions, where he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Sociology in 1978. Committed to continuous learning and professional development, Akume later pursued postgraduate studies at the University of Jos, where he obtained a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Industrial and Labour Relations in 1986. His academic background in sociology and industrial relations provided him with a comprehensive understanding of societal structures, human resource management, and conflict resolution, equipping him with valuable tools for his subsequent career in public administration and politics.

Career

George Akume's career in public service commenced in the Benue State Civil Service, where he held various administrative positions. He rose through the ranks, serving as an Assistant Secretary, Principal Secretary, and eventually an Acting Permanent Secretary in several ministries, gaining extensive experience in government bureaucracy and policy implementation. This period, spanning from the late 1970s through the 1990s, allowed him to develop a profound understanding of state governance and the intricacies of public administration. His administrative acumen was further recognized when he was appointed as the Sole Administrator of Gboko Local Government Area in 1996, and subsequently as the elected Chairman of Tarka Local Government Area from 1996 to 1998. These grassroots leadership roles provided him with direct experience in local governance, community mobilization, and addressing the immediate needs of the populace.

His political ascent began in earnest with Nigeria's return to democratic rule in 1999. Under the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), George Akume successfully contested and was elected as the Governor of Benue State. He served two consecutive terms, from May 29, 1999, to May 29, 2007. During his governorship, his administration focused on infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and agricultural modernization. Notable initiatives included the establishment of new educational institutions, rehabilitation of rural roads, and efforts to boost agricultural productivity, recognizing Benue as Nigeria's 'Food Basket'. He also navigated complex inter-ethnic relations within the state and managed resource allocation challenges typical of a diverse Nigerian state.

Following his tenure as governor, Akume transitioned to national politics. In 2007, he was elected to represent the Benue North-West Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate, a position he held for three consecutive terms until 2019. In the 7th Senate (2011-2015), he served as the Minority Leader, a significant role that positioned him as a key opposition figure and a vocal advocate for good governance and legislative oversight. His time in the Senate was marked by active participation in legislative debates, committee work, and advocacy for his constituents' interests. A pivotal moment in his career was his defection from the PDP to the newly formed All Progressives Congress (APC) in the run-up to the 2015 general elections, a move that significantly altered the political landscape of Benue State and contributed to the APC's national victory.

After his time in the Senate, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him as the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs in 2019, a position he held until the end of that administration in May 2023. In this ministerial capacity, he was responsible for coordinating various inter-governmental projects and special assignments of national importance. His extensive experience in both state and federal governance, coupled with his deep understanding of administrative processes, made him a natural choice for this role. On June 7, 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed George Akume as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), a highly influential and critical administrative position that places him at the heart of the federal government's operations, responsible for coordinating policies and programs across all ministries, departments, and agencies.

Major Achievements

George Akume's career is replete with significant achievements across various levels of government. As Governor of Benue State for eight years, he is credited with substantial advancements in infrastructure, including road construction and rehabilitation, and the establishment of new public institutions. His administration prioritized education, initiating programs aimed at improving school enrollment and quality, and made efforts to enhance healthcare delivery across the state. In the agricultural sector, he implemented policies to support farmers and boost food production, solidifying Benue's reputation as a key agricultural state. His leadership during a crucial period of democratic transition in Nigeria helped stabilize governance in Benue State.

As a three-term Senator, Akume distinguished himself as a committed legislator. His most notable achievement in the Senate was his role as the Minority Leader during the 7th Senate, where he provided robust opposition leadership, contributing significantly to legislative debates, oversight functions, and holding the executive arm accountable. He was instrumental in shaping the legislative agenda of the opposition and advocating for policies that promoted transparency and good governance. His political resilience was demonstrated by his successful transitions between state and federal roles, and his influential move from the PDP to the APC, which had a profound impact on national politics. His current appointment as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation underscores his administrative capabilities and the trust placed in his experience to coordinate the machinery of the Nigerian federal government.

Personal Life

George Akume is married to Mrs. Regina Akume, and their union has been a cornerstone of his personal and public life. Together, they have raised children and maintained a strong family unit, which is often seen as a reflection of stability in Nigerian society. Despite the demands of his high-profile political career, Akume has generally maintained a private personal life, focusing on his responsibilities. He is known to be a devout Christian and a community leader, maintaining close ties with his constituents and home state. His family has often been supportive of his political endeavors, providing a vital support system throughout his long and impactful career in public service. He is regarded as a respected elder statesman within Benue State and beyond.

Legacy

George Akume's legacy is defined by his enduring presence and influence in Nigerian politics for over two decades. He is remembered as a two-term Governor who laid significant developmental foundations in Benue State, particularly in infrastructure and human capital development. His tenure as Senate Minority Leader established him as a formidable opposition voice, contributing to the strengthening of democratic checks and balances. His political journey, marked by strategic alliances and transitions between major political parties, showcases his adaptability and political astuteness. As the current Secretary to the Government of the Federation, he continues to play a central role in shaping national policy and administration. Akume's career exemplifies a sustained commitment to public service, administrative excellence, and political leadership, making him one of Nigeria's most significant contemporary political figures. His impact on Benue State and his contributions to national governance are deeply etched in Nigeria's political history.