By Mohammed Bello Doka
In a significant step to bolster consumer rights and market regulation in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has appointed Mr. Olatunji Bello as the new Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice-Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). This pivotal appointment is subject to confirmation by the Senate.
Mr. Olatunji Bello is a seasoned professional with a multifaceted career spanning law, journalism, and public administration. He brings a robust educational background and extensive experience to his new role. Mr. Bello holds a Master’s degree in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Lagos, where he also earned his law degree and was admitted to the Nigerian Bar in 2002.
Mr. Bello's illustrious career began in journalism with Concord Newspapers in 1985. He quickly made a name for himself, serving as Group Political Editor, Sunday Concord Editor, and Editor of National Concord. His journalistic prowess earned him the prestigious US Alfred Friendly Press Fellowship, underscoring his commitment to excellence in media. In 2001, he was appointed Chairman of the Editorial Board of THISDAY Newspapers, further cementing his reputation as a leading figure in Nigerian journalism.
Transitioning to public service, Mr. Bello served as the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, where he demonstrated exemplary administrative skills. His tenure as Commissioner for Environment in Lagos State, across various administrations, showcased his dedication to public welfare and environmental sustainability.
President Tinubu's appointment of Mr. Bello is seen as a strategic move to enhance the operational efficiency and impact of the FCCPC. The President expects Mr. Bello to drive the Commission's mandate to protect and promote the interests and welfare of Nigerian consumers. This includes ensuring the adoption of measures that guarantee the safety and quality of goods and services available in the market.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission plays a critical role in maintaining a fair and competitive market environment in Nigeria. It is responsible for enforcing regulations that prevent monopolistic practices and protect consumer rights. Under Mr. Bello's leadership, the FCCPC is expected to intensify its efforts to safeguard consumers and ensure that businesses comply with fair trade practices.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President, conveyed President Tinubu's confidence in Mr. Bello's ability to lead the FCCPC effectively. The President believes that Mr. Bello's diverse expertise will be instrumental in realizing the Commission's goals and advancing consumer protection in Nigeria.
This appointment underscores the administration's commitment to fostering a transparent and accountable regulatory environment, ensuring that Nigerian consumers are well-protected and that businesses operate within the framework of the law. As Mr. Bello steps into his new role, stakeholders and observers alike will be watching closely to see how his leadership will shape the future of consumer protection and competition regulation in Nigeria.
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