In a significant reshuffling of leadership in key federal agencies, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of new chief executives for the National Universities Commission (NUC), the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), and the New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD).
The President also renewed the tenure of Fatima Umaru Shinkafi as the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF) and the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (PAGMI).
NUC: Professor Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu was named the new Executive Secretary. Ribadu, an expert in veterinary reproduction, is a seasoned academic and former Vice-Chancellor of both the Federal University of Technology, Yola, and Sule Lamido University, Jigawa.
NERDC: Professor Salisu Shehu has been appointed as Executive Secretary. Known for his expertise in educational and human psychology, Shehu played a pivotal role in establishing the School of Continuing Education at Bayero University, Kano, and served as Vice-Chancellor of Al-Istiqamah University, Kano.
NEPAD: Jabiru Salisu Abdullahi Tsauri will serve as the National Coordinator. Tsauri is a highly experienced administrator with a Master’s degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University and a strong background in legislative and global governance.
Meanwhile, Fatima Umaru Shinkafi’s tenure as Executive Secretary of the SMDF/PAGMI was renewed. Shinkafi, first appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari, is credited with driving reforms and innovation in the solid minerals sector.
The President’s earlier announcement of Yazid Shehu Umar Danfulani as Executive Secretary of the SMDF/PAGMI was rescinded, as there is no vacancy in the agency.
President Tinubu expressed optimism that the appointees would bring fresh energy, commitment, and innovative ideas to their roles, fulfilling the expectations of Nigerians.
