Abuja: The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has confirmed that the reappointment of its Director General, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, for a second tenure was officially sanctioned by President Bola Tinubu. This announcement was made through a statement issued by the agency’s Press Secretary, Mrs. Toyin Omozuwa.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the statement was released in response to an online article published by a national daily, which raised doubts regarding the legitimacy of Mustapha’s reappointment. Omozuwa clarified the situation by stating, “We find it necessary to correct the misleading narrative and reaffirm the objective and verifiable facts and legality of Prof. Mustapha’s renewed appointment.”
Omozuwa emphasized that the presidential approval for Mustapha’s reappointment was firmly grounded in the provisions of Sections 10(1) and (3) of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (Establishment) Act, 2022. The formal approval was communicated through a letter signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, dated November 6, 2024.
She further pointed out that the SGF acted as the legitimate channel for conveying the President’s decision. Omozuwa criticized assertions by groups such as the Independent Public Service Accountability Watch (IPSAW) and the Academic Staff Union of Research Institutions (ASURI), which challenged the reappointment. She asserted that these claims were inaccurate and did not hold legal standing against the President’s decision.
Additionally, Prof. Theophilus Ndubuaku, Secretary General of ASURI, had earlier praised Mustapha’s performance in a congratulatory letter, acknowledging his contributions to stability and leadership at NBRDA. Omozuwa expressed confusion over Ndubuaku’s contradictory stance, questioning the motives behind his sudden appeal against Mustapha’s reappointment.
She stressed that Mustapha’s reappointment, effective October 31, 2024, was based on merit and aimed at ensuring continued institutional progress. Under Mustapha’s leadership, NBRDA has achieved significant advancements in pharmaceutical production and research capabilities. Omozuwa urged the media to verify facts stringently and avoid spreading misinformation that could damage public trust in governmental procedures.