Akume charges NUPRC board on governance, accountability

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity , Yomi Odunuga, Akume said “the establishment and inauguration of this Board underscore the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s upstream petroleum resources are managed transparently, efficiently and in the best interest of the Nigerian people”.

He noted that the appointments reflect a deliberate selection of individuals with proven competence, integrity and professional experience, expressing confidence that their collective expertise would advance the objectives of the PIA.

“Members of the Board, your charge is clear. You are to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance, ensure accountability and transparency, and work constructively with management and stakeholders while maintaining regulatory independence,” Akume said.

The SGF stressed that integrity, diligence and fidelity to the law must guide the Board’s decisions, noting that public trust and national interest depend on their stewardship.

He added that the exercise aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises strong institutions, the rule of law and integrity in public service, noting that effective regulation of the upstream sector remains central to economic growth, energy security and fiscal sustainability.

In a separate ceremony inaugurating the NALDA Board, Akume reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to agricultural transformation as a key pillar of national development.

He described NALDA as a strategic vehicle for poverty eradication, food security enhancement, job creation and rural transformation, noting that its mandate to drive agricultural land development is critical to achieving national development goals.

The SGF highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the Renewed Hope Mega Farm Estates, designed as modern mechanised agricultural hubs with integrated irrigation, processing infrastructure and farmer settlements.

He also listed complementary programmes including the Renewed Hope Restoration Project for vulnerable groups, the Green Hope Project focused on climate-smart greenhouse farming, and the Aqua Hope Project aimed at expanding structured aquaculture systems.

According to him, these initiatives are already yielding positive outcomes in food production, employment generation and rural economic growth, while supporting the administration’s broader objective of economic diversification.

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“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 emphasised that the NALDA Board would play a crucial role in providing strategic direction, effective oversight and management support required to consolidate the Authority’s gains and ensure the successful delivery of its mandate.

He urged members of both Boards to approach their assignments with a strong sense of duty, patriotism and commitment to national development, assuring them of the Federal Government’s support.

Responding on behalf of the NUPRC Board, Chairman, Senator Magnus Abe, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, pledging that the Board would not disappoint.

“We are very grateful to the President and we want to assure him through you that we will not disappoint him,” he said, adding that the Board would work closely with management to deliver on the objectives of the PIA.

Similarly, chairman of the NALDA Board, Kabir Abdullahi Barkiya, described the appointments as a call to service, assuring that the Board would provide sound governance, transparency and accountability in supporting the Authority’s mandate.

“As a Governing Board, our mandate is clear: to provide strategic direction, ensure sound governance, and uphold transparency and accountability in the discharge of our duties,” Barkiya said.