Paragraph 1: A New Era Begins at the Treasury House
The Nigerian Treasury ushered in a new era on Monday, March 7, 2025, with the official assumption of office by Mr. Shamseldeen Ogunjimi as the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF). Succeeding Dr. Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, who retired the same day, Mr. Ogunjimi brings over 30 years of experience in financial management gleaned from both the public and private sectors. His academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from the University of Nigeria and a Master’s in Accounting and Finance from the University of Lagos. He is also a fellow of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria. His arrival was met with anticipation, marking a pivotal moment for the Treasury.
Paragraph 2: A Call for Unity and Shared Responsibility
Mr. Ogunjimi’s first address to the staff at the Treasury House in Abuja set the tone for his leadership. Recognizing the magnitude of the responsibilities ahead, he emphasized the importance of unity and collective effort. He declared that the success or failure of the Treasury rested on the shoulders of every staff member, and he pledged his unwavering commitment to elevating the institution’s standing. This call for shared responsibility served as a unifying message, emphasizing the interconnectedness of their roles in achieving the Treasury’s objectives.
Paragraph 3: Safeguarding Treasury Independence and Fair Practices
Central to Mr. Ogunjimi’s vision is the preservation of the Treasury’s autonomy. He vowed to resist external pressures, particularly from Chief Executives of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), who in the past have attempted to influence personnel decisions, especially concerning Directors of Finance and Administration. He firmly declared his intention to break from this precedent, promising fair and transparent handling of career-related matters. This commitment to independence signaled a shift towards a more meritocratic and impartial system within the Treasury.
Paragraph 4: Addressing Workplace Concerns and Fostering Open Communication
Acknowledging the potential for workplace conflicts and their detrimental impact on staff morale and effectiveness, Mr. Ogunjimi pledged to address such issues proactively. He assured staff that their concerns would be heard and that solutions would be sought to ensure their professional well-being. He even acknowledged the possibility of reassignment in cases where a chief executive’s actions threatened an officer’s career. This empathetic approach, coupled with his open-door policy, aimed to create a more supportive and productive work environment.
Paragraph 5: Focusing on the Future and Rebuilding the Treasury’s Image
Looking ahead, Mr. Ogunjimi urged the staff to move beyond past controversies and concentrate on rebuilding the Treasury’s image. He stressed the need to avoid internal divisions and focus on the collective task of improving public perception. He challenged each member to reflect on their individual contributions to the Treasury’s reputation, emphasizing that every action, however small, played a role in shaping the public’s view of the institution. This forward-looking approach signaled a desire to break from past practices and cultivate a new era of transparency and accountability.
Paragraph 6: A Commitment to Service and Institutional Integrity
Expressing gratitude for the opportunities he had received throughout his career, Mr. Ogunjimi pledged to uphold the integrity of the Treasury. He recognized the crucial role the service had played in his own professional development and affirmed his dedication to maintaining the highest ethical standards. His appeal to the staff to embrace teamwork, coupled with his emphasis on work and dedication, underscored his vision for a revitalized and respected Treasury. This commitment to service, coupled with his emphasis on unity and hard work, set the stage for a new chapter in the history of the Nigerian Treasury.
