El-Rufai, Masari Extol Acting BOI MD’s Leadership Style, Policy Implementation

Two governors have spoken words of commendations about the Acting Managing Director, Bank of Industry (BoI), Waheed Olagunju, for his purposeful leadership and policy strides he had led the development finance institution in taking in the areas of entrepreneurship and job creation.

The governors are Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai and Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari.

El-Rufai said : “Waheed Olagunju as acting managing director of Bank of Industry has done so much in the few months he has acted as MD to help set the state governments in Nigeria, not just Kaduna but virtually all the 36 state governments with supports necessary to create jobs.”

According to him, “One of the most important programmes he launched is the Youth Employment Scheme, which all the state governments are enjoying . So I felt it was necessary for one governor to be here to express our support and appreciation for his leadership.”

Besides, El-Rufai also noted: “In addition, Bank of Industry and the Kaduna State Government have partnered on several projects: The Kaduna State Entrepreneurship Scheme (KAD-STEP) as well as our collaboration to acquire majority shares of Peugeot Automobile Nigeria. So Waheed is not just a brother, member of our family, but also someone that has supported Kaduna State and indeed all the 36 states to address one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria: job creation and advancement of economic opportunities.”

In his own comments about Olagunju, Masari said, “I’m happy and impressed by the way acting MD is looking after BoI.”

It would be recalled that in 2006, during his speech at a send-off ceremony organised for him by BoI, the former chairman, Ambassador Zakari Ibrahim, said: “ If you permit me, however, I would particularly single out for mention, the Secretary to the Board, Mr. Waheed Olagunju, for the selfless service he rendered throughout the period of our stewardship. Your contributions are highly appreciated.”