“Behind Every Policy, There’s a Permanent Secretary” — Finance Minister Edun Praises Civil Service
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The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has hailed permanent secretaries as the true “backbone” of effective governance, citing their indispensable role in ensuring the seamless operation of government institutions.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Speaking at a retirement dinner in Abuja on Saturday in honour of Nnamdi Mbaeri, the former Permanent Secretary of the General Services Office in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Edun stressed that no public official can succeed without working closely with their permanent secretary. “Anyone who intends to thrive in government must not take their permanent secretary for granted. Otherwise, they may have a very different experience from mine. A strong partnership is essential,” he said. Edun praised the deep knowledge, broad experience, and practical wisdom that permanent secretaries bring to their roles, noting: “They are truly the backbone of government. On almost any issue, they can guide and offer solutions.” Reflecting on his own working relationship with Mbaeri, Edun recalled their collaboration prior to his ministerial appointment, particularly during the work of the Presidential Transition Committee before the 2023 general elections. “I met him even before my appointment—initially as Special Adviser on Monetary Policy, and later as minister. He was always kind, helpful, diligent, insightful, and ready to share his expertise,” Edun remarked. He commended Mbaeri for a distinguished public service career, saying, “You began well, served with excellence, and are retiring in a remarkable way that others should aspire to emulate.” In a goodwill message, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume—represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ecological Fund Office, Aishetu Ndayako—also praised Mbaeri’s contributions to the federal civil service. “We’re here not just to mark the retirement of a man who gave so much to the service, but to honour a life that reached a truly meaningful and dignified milestone,” Akume said. He highlighted Mbaeri’s firm yet unassuming leadership style and dedication to public service values. “Since I assumed office, I’ve seen in you a rare commitment to duty. Your legacy will endure,” the SGF added.
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