By Stanley Iwuoha
The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has refuted a media report that casted doubts on the legitimacy of the renewal of appointment of Professor Abdullahi Mustapha as its Director-General.
A statement by the agency signed by the
Press Secretary to the DG, Toyin Omozuwa, described the report as I correct and misleading narrative, and reaffirmed the legality of the DG’s appointment renewal.
The statement reads in part: “The attention of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has been drawn to a news article published by the “Tribune Online”, raising concerns and casting doubt on the legitimacy of the renewal of appointment of Professor Abdullahi Mustapha as Director-General of the agency.
“We find it necessary to correct the misleading narrative and reaffirm the objective and verifiable facts and legality of his renewal of appointment.
Contrary to insinuations in the report, the renewal of the appointment of Prof. Mustapha was duly authorised by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in accordance with the provisions of Sections 10(1) and (3) of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (Establishment) Act, 2022.
“This presidential approval was conveyed through a formal letter signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, dated 6th November, 2024 with reference number SGF.51/S.4/T./84 It is critical to emphasise that the SGF acted as an authorised channel in communicating the decision of the President.
“Spurious assertions by third parties or interest groups, such as the Independent Public Service Accountability Watch (IPSAW), and the Academic Staff Union of Research Institutions do not override the legal powers vested in the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under the law. The claim that the renewal of appointment violates extant regulations is inaccurate and unfounded. It is rather contradictory that Prof. Theophilus Ndubuaku, who, in a congratulatory letter on behalf of the Academic Staff Union of Research Institutions dated 18th November, 2024 with reference number ASN/NBRDA/CM/1124/01, praised the renewal of the appointment of Prof. Mustapha as “a bold testament to your superlative performance during your first tenure, which brought stability to NBRDA and showcased your exemplary administrative acumen and visionary leadership.
“By emerging as a top choice after a rigorous and competitive search process during your initial appointment, you set a precedent of excellence, which you have consistently upheld. We particularly commend your mentoring role to the growing cadre of young and budding researchers at NBRDA, fostering a culture of innovation, dedication and professional growth…”, would now question the legitimacy of that same reappointment. If, as he affirmed, the first tenure was marked by excellence and institutional stability, it is difficult to reconcile such high commendation with a sudden appeal for a change in leadership, especially when such a shift risk disrupting the very stability he once applauded.
“One must ask: Is this about national interest, or something else entirely? Professor Abdullahi Mustapha’s reappointment for a final five-year term, effective October 31, 2024, is grounded in legal conformity, merit, and continued institutional progress.
“Under his leadership, NBRDA has made notable strides in enhancing indigenous pharmaceutical production and advancing research capacity.”
The organisation urged the media to exercise due diligence in verifying facts and avoid disseminating speculative or misleading information that could undermine public trust in government processes.
