Former Presidential Aide Akande Shares Thoughts on Ministers’ Portfolios Being Duplicated

Mr. Laolu Akande, the former Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, has called on President Bola Tinubu to promptly address the issue of having duplicated roles among some of the newly appointed Ministers.

During an appearance on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily breakfast show, Akande highlighted the importance of clarifying roles such as Innovation and Social Development.

He pointed out that failure to address this matter urgently could lead to conflicts among the ministers.

He specifically mentioned the existence of both a Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation and a Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy. Akande suggested that this issue needs to be resolved.

Moreover, Akande stressed the need for the President to implement comprehensive civil service reforms as a crucial agenda item.

He described this as a significant aspect of the government’s functioning. He also emphasized the value of a system that evaluates performance based on accomplishments. This, according to Akande, should be tied to career advancement for civil servants.

Akande stated that the President plays a central role in determining performance indicators and the composition of the cabinet.

He emphasized that the civil service forms the foundation of a successful administration, without which ministries would face significant challenges in executing their responsibilities in the future.

Addressing tensions within the Cabinet, Akande acknowledged that the Federal Executive Council operates under the President’s guidance.

He explained that while ministers might come with different backgrounds, it’s ultimately the President’s vision and arrangements that guide the Council’s functioning.

Speaking about the interaction between Ministers and Civil Servants, Akande highlighted the enduring nature of civil service roles compared to the transient nature of ministerial appointments.

He stressed the need for attention to Civil Service Reforms, as they hold substantial importance.

He commended the efforts of individuals like Mr. Aig-Imoukhuede and his Foundation, who have been collaborating on the reform of the Federal Civil Service…[CONTINUE READING HERE]>>