Pius Anyim: SGF and SSG Positions Not Constitutionally Mandated
Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, clarified on Thursday that the positions of Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Secretary to State Governments (SSG) are not explicitly established by law. He pointed out that Sections 171(1)(2) and 208 of the 1999 Constitution merely allow the President and state governors to appoint individuals to these roles as part of their executive functions.
Addressing the Forum of the SGF and SSGs, Anyim, who is also a former Senate President, questioned whether the absence of these positions from the Constitution was intentional or an oversight. He noted that while the Constitution mentions the SGF and SSG in terms of appointments and code of conduct, it does not formally institutionalize these offices.
“Sections 171 and 208 of the Constitution only mention the SGF and SSG as appointees under executive authority. The roles of SGF and SSG need to be legally institutionalized to ensure their proper functioning and protection,” Anyim said. He proposed seeking advice from the Attorney General of the Federation to establish a cohesive framework for government operations.
SGF George Akume emphasized the necessity of enhancing coordination among the different levels of government. He stressed the importance of a unified approach to policy implementation to address Nigeria’s multifaceted challenges effectively. “We must ensure that federal, state, and local policies are well-aligned and implemented consistently to advance our national objectives,” Akume stated.
