By Fater Ephraim Sarwuan, Esq.
The Man, The Leader, The Builder, The Colossus, and the Maker of Men
Few Nigerian public servants have enjoyed a career as distinguished, enduring, and impactful as that of His Excellency, Senator Dr. George Akume Igbegbe Jugu Dajoh, KSJI, CON. Over the decades, he has built a reputation founded on service, loyalty, humility, and exceptional leadership, making him one of the most experienced statesmen in contemporary Nigerian politics.
His journey through public service is a remarkable story of steady growth and dedication. Beginning his career in the Benue State Civil Service, he rose to become Director of Protocol at the Government House, Makurdi, before attaining the rank of Permanent Secretary. Following his retirement from the civil service, he ventured into partisan politics, where the people of Benue State entrusted him with the governorship in 1999. He served successfully for two consecutive terms, laying foundations that continue to influence the state’s political landscape.
After completing his tenure as Governor, Senator Akume represented Benue North-West Senatorial District in the Senate for twelve years, where he distinguished himself as an experienced legislator and respected national figure. He was subsequently appointed Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs by the late President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. Today, he serves as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, occupying one of the highest and most strategic offices in the country.
Throughout his public life, Senator Akume has been widely acknowledged for his humility, loyalty, accessibility, and commitment to friendship. His long-standing political relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu exemplifies his consistency and unwavering loyalty—qualities that have earned him respect across political divides.
The Leader
Within Benue State and beyond, Senator George Akume has emerged as one of the most influential political figures of his generation. His political reach extends throughout the North-Central region and across Nigeria, where he enjoys cordial relationships with leaders from diverse ethnic, religious, and political backgrounds.
His leadership style is anchored on inclusion, reconciliation, and mentorship. Even when political associates have disagreed with him or pursued different paths, Senator Akume has consistently demonstrated a willingness to forgive, reconcile, and work together in the interest of peace and progress. This uncommon quality has strengthened his reputation as a leader who values unity above personal differences.
A skilled grassroots mobiliser and strategic politician, Senator Akume played a significant role in the growth of progressive politics in Benue State. Following political developments within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he aligned with the progressive movement led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, then Governor of Lagos State. His participation in building the opposition structure that later evolved through the Action Congress (AC), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and ultimately the All Progressives Congress (APC), remains a notable chapter in Benue’s political history.
The Colossus
Behind Senator Akume’s calm disposition lies a leader whose influence extends far beyond political office. His generosity, compassion, and willingness to assist others have endeared him to thousands across Nigeria.
Supporters often describe him as a man who places the welfare of others above personal comfort. Numerous testimonies speak of his readiness to provide assistance whenever people seek his help, irrespective of political affiliation or social status. His residence has become a meeting point for political leaders, community stakeholders, traditional rulers, and citizens seeking counsel, making it a recognised centre for dialogue and decision-making on issues affecting Benue State and the North-Central region.
Despite occupying some of the nation’s highest offices, Senator Akume has maintained a remarkably simple and approachable personality. His humility, often mistaken for weakness by critics, has instead become one of his greatest strengths, attracting admiration and enduring loyalty from many.
The Maker of Men
One of Senator George Akume’s most enduring legacies is his commitment to mentoring and supporting emerging leaders.
After completing his tenure as Governor, he supported the emergence of Gabriel Suswam, then a member of the House of Representatives representing Katsina-Ala/Ukum/ Logo Federal Constituency, who subsequently served two terms as Governor of Benue State.
In 2015, following political developments within the PDP, Samuel Ortom joined the APC and secured the party’s governorship ticket with the support of Senator Akume. Ortom went on to win the election and also served two terms as Governor.
Similarly, Senator Akume played a significant role in the emergence of the current Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, by mobilising political support that culminated in his victory at the polls.
Beyond governorship contests, Senator Akume has contributed immensely to the emergence of numerous senators, members of the House of Representatives, state legislators, local government officials, and other public office holders who have benefited from his mentorship, guidance, and political support. His influence on leadership development in Benue State remains one of the defining features of his political career.
A Statesman for the Future
As Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume continues to bring decades of administrative experience, political wisdom, and statesmanship to national governance. His career reflects resilience, discipline, loyalty, and an unwavering commitment to public service.
Whether as a civil servant, Governor, Senator, Minister, or Secretary to the Government of the Federation, he has consistently answered the call to serve. Admirers believe that his contributions to Nigeria’s development are far from over and that greater responsibilities may yet lie ahead.
Indeed, the story of Senator Dr. George Akume Igbegbe Jugu Dajoh, KSJI, CON, is not merely that of a politician. It is the story of a leader who has inspired many, mentored generations, built enduring institutions, and left an indelible imprint on the political history of Benue State and Nigeria.
