Senate President Godswill Akpabio has named Chinedu Akabueze, the outgoing Clerk of the Senate, as his new Chief of Staff. This appointment comes as Akabueze nears the conclusion of his career in the Senate, marking a significant transition in his public service journey.
Akabueze takes over the role from Sylvester Okonkwo, who has moved on to serve as the Executive Director of the newly established South East Development Commission. Okonkwo’s new position aligns with the federal government’s initiative to address development challenges in the South East region.
Akabueze’s tenure as Clerk of the Senate began on March 4, 2022. After nearly three years of service, he will retire on December 10, 2024, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60. His appointment as Chief of Staff is considered a strategic move by Akpabio, reflecting confidence in Akabueze’s deep knowledge of legislative processes and his ability to manage the Senate’s administrative affairs effectively.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly Service Commission has announced Andrew Ogbonnaya Nwoba as Akabueze’s successor. Nwoba will assume the position of Clerk of the Senate on December 11, 2024, signaling the continuation of administrative leadership in the legislative chamber.