Sen. Dr. George Akume, GCON: A Statesman, Visionary Leader, and Father of the Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja

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Sen. Dr. George Akume, GCON: A Statesman, Visionary Leader, and Father of the Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja

Sen. Dr. George Akume, GCON, stands today as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished public servants, a statesman whose leadership continues to shape national governance, economic development, and institutional transformation. Serving as the Chairman, Board of Directors of the National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja, Akume embodies the vision, stability, and strategic direction that drive Nigeria’s renewed commitment to local production, national branding, and global competitiveness.

Widely regarded as the Father of the Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja, his guidance has positioned the institution as a leading national platform for promoting indigenous industries, enhancing export capacity, and building a strong national product identity across global markets.


A Distinguished National Leader with Decades of Service

Born on December 27, 1953, Sen. Dr. George Akume has dedicated over four decades to public service. His political and administrative journey reflects exceptional consistency, credibility, and transformative impact.

He currently serves as the 21st Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), one of the highest offices in Nigeria’s federal governance structure. Before this role, he served as:

  • Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs (2019–2023)

  • Senator, Benue North-West (2007–2019)

  • Minority Leader of the Senate (2011–2015)

  • Governor of Benue State (1999–2007)

This extraordinary trajectory demonstrates Akume’s commitment to governance excellence, strategic leadership, and nation-building.


Academic Background: A Foundation Built on Knowledge and Service

Sen. Akume holds a Bachelor's degree in Sociology and a Master’s degree in Labour Relations from the University of Ibadan, one of Nigeria’s most prestigious universities. His academic grounding in human behavior, labour systems, and political economy forms the bedrock of his people-centered leadership style.

Championing National Brand Development

As Chairman of the Board of Directors, National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja, Sen. Akume plays a pivotal role in advancing Nigeria’s economic transformation agenda. Under his leadership, the office has emerged as a national engine for:

✔ Promoting Indigenous Products

The Office drives the global identity of Nigerian fabrics, crafts, agro-products, industrial goods, and technology innovations.

✔ Strengthening Local Manufacturing Capacity

Akume advocates for policies that support local industries, improve SME competitiveness, and encourage value-chain development.

✔ Expanding Nigeria’s Global Trade Network

Through international expos, investment missions, and bilateral partnerships, he ensures that Nigerian brands gain visibility on the world stage.

✔ Building a Strong National Product Identity

His leadership anchors the Made in Nigeria Project as a symbol of national pride, quality, and commercial viability.

The Father of the Made in Nigeria Project Office

Sen. Dr. George Akume is fondly regarded as the Father of the Made in Nigeria Project Office due to his:

  • Foundational support for the establishment and growth of the institution

  • Strategic guidance in shaping its national mandate

  • Commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s economic independence

  • Vision for positioning Nigerian products as globally competitive brands

With his backing, the Office has become a national catalyst for industrial revival, export growth, and strategic brand development.

National Impact: Governance, Reform, and Institutional Strengthening

Across his roles, Sen. Akume has consistently championed:

Intergovernmental collaboration

Ensuring synergy between federal, state, and local government institutions.


Good governance and transparency

Improving policy delivery and institutional accountability.


National economic stability

Encouraging policies that support investment, innovation, and sustainable development.


International partnerships

Leading committees and national delegations that strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic relations.

A Leader Rooted in Service, Guided by Vision

Sen. Akume’s leadership style is defined by humility, discipline, and a deep commitment to national unity. His political career, from Governor to Senator, Minister, and SGF, reflects his unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s progress.

His service has earned him national recognition, including the prestigious honour of:

  • Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)

Personal Life

Sen. George Akume is married to Hon. Regina Akume, a respected member of the House of Representatives. Together, they embody a family tradition of national service, leadership, and community development.

Conclusion

Sen. Dr. George Akume, GCON, continues to stand as a pillar of national leadership, a man whose wisdom, experience, and patriotic commitment shape Nigeria’s governance and economic direction. His role as Chairman and Father of the National Brand Development and Made in Nigeria Project Office, Abuja, cements his legacy as a champion of local production, national identity, and global relevance.

Through his leadership, the Made in Nigeria vision is not merely a policy, it is a national movement empowering industries, strengthening communities, and projecting Nigeria proudly onto the world stage.


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