In a bid to sustain Nigeria’s momentum in biotechnology and innovation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reappointed Professor Abdullahi Mustapha as the Director General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) for a second term of five years. This announcement, made in a statement issued by Toyin Omozuwa, the press secretary to the NBRDA DG, highlights a continued commitment to advancing scientific research and bolstering national food security.
The reappointment, formalized by a letter from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, took effect from October 31, 2024, in accordance with the National Biotechnology Development Agency (Establishment) Act, 2022. Professor Mustapha’s leadership in biotechnology, specifically in bioinorganic chemistry, has earned him recognition within and beyond Nigeria’s borders, and his reappointment signals President Tinubu’s confidence in his capabilities to push forward vital developments in the sector.
Industry analysts commend this decision, viewing it as an affirmation of the administration’s support for innovation-led policies to address pressing challenges like food security and pharmaceutical self-reliance. Under Mustapha’s guidance, the agency aims to intensify its work in expanding pharmaceutical production and driving Nigeria’s role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, where biotechnology stands as a key component of economic and social transformation.
Hailing from Dambatta Local Government Area in Kano State, Professor Mustapha’s journey from academia to national leadership underscores a wealth of expertise that continues to be integral to NBRDA’s mission. The reappointment not only reflects the president's trust in Mustapha's vision but also sets a course for further advancements that hold the potential to significantly impact Nigeria’s health, agriculture, and industrial landscapes.
As the country navigates global and domestic challenges, this renewed tenure promises steady leadership in biotechnology research—critical for positioning Nigeria as a scientific hub in Africa.
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