The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has described permanent secretaries as the “backbone” of any government.
Edun shared this view on Saturday while speaking at a farewell dinner held in Abuja to honour Nnamdi Mbaeri, the outgoing Permanent Secretary of the General Services Office, under the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
According to the minister, those who want to make an impact in government must work hand-in-hand with their permanent secretaries. He noted that these top civil servants carry a wealth of experience and deep understanding that helps the smooth operation of government institutions.
“Anybody that wants to succeed in government must not joke with the perm sec; otherwise, he is going to have the kind of experience that you are not having,” Edun said.
“You must be in sync with your permanent secretary. Their knowledge is so deep, their understanding so profound, and their experience so widespread that, on almost any topic, if you talk to them, they can help you. They are the backbone of government.”
Looking back at his own interactions with Mbaeri, Edun noted that their relationship began even before his current role as minister. He recalled working closely with Mbaeri during the preparations of the Presidential Transition Committee before the 2023 elections.
“I met him even before I came into government—first as Special Adviser on Monetary Policy and later in my current position. He was kind, diligent, helpful, understanding, and very knowledgeable. At every turn, he was ever ready to impart that knowledge,” he said.
The minister also praised Mbaeri for his dedication and character throughout his career in public service, noting that he is leaving behind a strong legacy.
“You started well, you did well, and you are exiting the service in a splendid manner that is worthy of emulation and which I’m sure others will aspire to,” Edun added.
Also speaking at the event, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, was represented by Aishetu Ndayako, the Permanent Secretary of the Ecological Fund Office. Akume praised Mbaeri for his meaningful contributions to the federal civil service.
“Today, we gather not only to bid farewell to a man who has contributed immensely to the federal civil service, but also to celebrate a life that has reached a significant and honourable milestone. A well-lived life is not measured solely by the number of years, but by the impact one has made,” Akume said in his message.
He further noted the strong support Mbaeri gave during his time at the Office of the Secretary to the Government, describing his leadership as firm but humble, and guided by the core values of public service.
“In your years of service, especially since I assumed office, I observed in you an uncommon commitment to duty. Your tenure established a legacy that will live on,” he added.
