President Bola Tinubu has announced the appointments of new chief executive officers for key national organisations, including the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), the Solid Minerals Development Fund/Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (SMDF/PAGMI), and the New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD).
Prof. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu – NUC Executive Secretary
President Tinubu named Prof. Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu, a visiting professor at the NUC, as its Executive Secretary. A veterinary reproduction expert, Prof. Ribadu has previously served as Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Yola, and Sule Lamido University, Jigawa State.
Prof. Salisu Shehu – NERDC Executive Secretary
Prof. Salisu Shehu, a renowned academic in educational and human psychology, has been appointed as the Executive Secretary of the NERDC. Prof. Shehu was instrumental in establishing the School of Continuing Education at Bayero University, Kano, and also served as Vice-Chancellor of Al-Istiqamah University, Kano.
Jabiru Salisu Abdullahi Tsauri – NEPAD National Coordinator
For NEPAD, President Tinubu appointed Jabiru Salisu Abdullahi Tsauri as the National Coordinator. Tsauri holds a Master’s degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University. He is a seasoned administrator with expertise in legislative affairs, global affairs, and democratic governance, coupled with extensive public service experience.
Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani – SMDF/PAGMI Executive Secretary
The President also named Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani as Executive Secretary of the SMDF/PAGMI. Danfulani, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s in Arts and Management from the University of Hertfordshire, UK, has a strong background in banking, computing, and business administration. He previously worked with the Central Bank of Nigeria and served as Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in Zamfara State.
President’s Confidence in the Appointees
President Tinubu expressed confidence that the appointees’ extensive expertise and track records will usher in a new era of commitment and progress in their respective organisations. He emphasized their roles in meeting Nigerians’ expectations and delivering positive outcomes in their areas of responsibility.