Mr. Abdirahman Ibrahim Adan (Abees), Director of the Somaliland National Printing Agency, issued a public apology today for an unauthorized video posted on the agency’s official social media page. The video, featuring a soldier from the agency’s security team praising Abees and the institution, was promptly removed, signaling a push for greater professionalism in government communications.
Director Abees’ apology highlights a commitment to transparency within Somaliland’s public sector. He noted, “Where work is being done, both successes and errors are inevitable.” Acknowledging the good intentions behind the post, he admitted it was a mistake, as he was unaware of its content or timing. “Such a video does not belong on the National Printing Agency’s page,” he said, emphasizing that the public is vigilant in assessing government performance.
A well-known poet and former critic of government policies, Abees has navigated past controversies but has recently driven progress at the agency, including a significant employee salary increase in July 2025 to enhance morale and productivity. In his statement, Abees apologized to Somaliland’s citizens and the agency’s followers, pledging stricter oversight of the agency’s social media. “Going forward, our page will focus solely on the agency’s core work,” he declared, rejecting self-promotion and set example other officials to follow his lead in correcting missteps.
As Somaliland gains international attention amid talks of recognition, this incident reflects a shift toward responsiveness in governance. Public reactions on social media vary, with some commending Abees’ accountability and others demanding wider reforms in government communication.
The National Printing Agency, vital for producing official documents and currency, continues to benefit from Abees’ focus on operational improvements, including recent salary hikes lauded for supporting staff amid economic challenges. His actions set a precedent for accountability that other Somaliland officials are encouraged to emulate.