New NASENI Boss Assumes Office, Vows to Deploy Tech in Driving Tinubu’s Agenda

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The newly appointed Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Halilu, has said he would ensure the deployment of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) in growing the Nigerian economy.

Halilu, a tech expert and entrepreneur who was appointed to lead NASENI by President Bola Tinubu, replacing Dr Bashir Gwandu, spoke while addressing the management and staff of the agency shortly after his assumption of office.

While expatiating on his market-driven approach to management, he said his administration would leverage on technology transfer and also domestic, home-grown technology development which he described as the core mandate of NASENI, a statement by the Director, Information and Protocol, Mr Olusegun  Ayeoyenikan, stated.

He added that the agency would play critical roles in supporting the president’s economic agenda for the nation anchored on areas like food security, ending poverty, economic growth and job creation, creating access to capital through consumer credit, inclusivity, improving security, rule of law and fighting corruption.

The new EVC/CEO said in the 21st century, there were immense opportunities for Nigeria to leapfrog in the areas of science, technology, engineering and innovation.

He promised that NASENI during his tenure would play effectively those central roles through technology transfer revolution that is coming.

 “Our duty here at NASENI will be to use our resources, our talents, our capacity, and our energy to drive economic development priority areas of President Bola  Tinubu administration, in line with the Act establishing this agency.

“As a preeminent agency saddled with enormous responsibilities, NASENI with its development institutes and over 4,000 members of staff, is appropriately positioned to deliver on its mandate,” he said.

The new EVC/CEO who pleaded with the staff to put in their best, to work with full commitment and dedication, promised that the welfare of all NASENI staff will be his priority.

 “We shall adopt, adapt and domesticate cutting-edge technologies, wherever we find it. We will build a pool of well-educated and talented personnel, support world-class research and development (R&Ds), and build partnerships and collaborations across Nigeria, Africa and the world,” he said.

Halilu was received by top management staff of the agency, led by Mrs. Nonyem Onyechi, Coordinating Director Planning & Business Development, who guided him on a tour of the agency’s facilities.