Akume Inaugurates NUPRC and NALDA Boards, Urges Governance and Agricultural Growth

The recent inauguration of the Boards for the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, signifies a crucial step in the Federal Government's agenda for enhanced governance and national development. These ceremonies in Abuja underscore a renewed commitment to strengthening institutional frameworks and driving sectoral reforms across key areas of the Nigerian economy.

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uphold the highest standards of corporate governance, ensure accountability and transparency, and work constructively with management and stakeholders while maintaining regulatory independence.

Speaking at the NUPRC board inauguration, Mr. Akume laid down clear expectations for the commission's leadership. He emphasized the paramount importance of upholding the highest standards of corporate governance, ensuring robust accountability and transparency, and fostering constructive collaboration with management and stakeholders. Crucially, he stressed the need to maintain regulatory independence, a vital component for effective oversight in the petroleum sector, which is central to Nigeria's economic fortunes. This directive aligns directly with the objectives of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), aiming to bring clarity, efficiency, and global best practices to the upstream petroleum industry.

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scale up its programmes across more states, strengthen the use of technology, and expand opportunities for youth and women in agriculture.

Simultaneously, Mr. Akume charged the NALDA board with a mandate to significantly scale up its agricultural initiatives. The focus is on expanding programs across more states, integrating advanced technology, and creating broader opportunities for young people and women in the agricultural sector. This push for agricultural development is not merely about increasing food production; it is intrinsically linked to job creation, economic diversification, and achieving food security for the nation, key pillars of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's 'Renewed Hope Agenda.'

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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.

From our perspective in Nigeria, these inaugurations represent more than just symbolic events. They signal a practical implementation of policies designed to foster integrity, strengthen institutions, and accelerate inclusive national development. The emphasis on competence, integrity, and professional experience in the selection of board members for both critical agencies reflects a deliberate effort to ensure effective stewardship. The success of these boards will be pivotal in optimizing resource management, enhancing investor confidence, and ultimately, delivering tangible benefits to the Nigerian people.

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integrity, diligence and fidelity to the law must guide all decisions of the Board, noting that public trust and national interest depend heavily on their stewardship.