From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the quality of education in Nigeria, describing education as the cornerstone of the current administration.
Akume made the remarks during a courtesy visit from a delegation of the Eternal Sacred Order of the Cherubim & Seraphim (ESOCS), led by its Prelate, His Most Eminence Baba Aladura David Bob-Manuel, according to a statement by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen.
Highlighting President Tinubu’s previous achievements as Lagos State governor, the SGF recalled how the President successfully returned missionary schools to their original owners despite facing significant opposition. “During his tenure as Executive Governor of Lagos State, President Tinubu was able to return missionary schools to their rightful owners, despite stiff resistance, for better management of the schools,” Akume said.
He also emphasised the President’s efforts to expand access to higher education through the introduction of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which offers interest-free loans to eligible students.
Akume further praised religious organisations for their critical role in providing education, healthcare, and promoting peace and unity across the nation. “We are ready to partner with religious bodies to strengthen peaceful co-existence and national development,” he assured.
In his address, the ESOCS Prelate expressed the order’s full support for President Tinubu’s administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda. “We stand in unalloyed solidarity with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and are ready to collaborate with the government towards the actualisation of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Baba Aladura David Bob-Manuel said, also offering congratulations to both the President and the SGF.
The visit culminated in the presentation of centenary souvenirs to Akume, marking 100 years of ESOCS ministry, alongside prayers for the President, the SGF, and the nation’s peace, unity, and sustainable development.