False claims debunked as Tinubu approves final term for NBRDA boss

The Presidency has confirmed Professor Abdullahi Mustapha's reappointment as Director General of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), dismissing recent claims of illegality surrounding his tenure extension.

The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) issued a statement on Monday describing the reappointment as a lawful exercise of presidential authority.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally approved the reappointment of Professor Abdullahi Mustapha… for a final term of five years with effect from 31st October, 2024,” the statement read.

The OSGF emphasised that the reappointment process adhered strictly to existing laws and governance protocols.

“The role of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation is to convey appointments, issue appointment letters, and document the appointee,” explained Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations.

This clarification comes in response to widespread reports alleging procedural violations and misuse of authority in the appointment process.

SGF clarifies misleading reports

The OSGF firmly refuted these claims, noting that the SGF acts solely “on the President’s directives.”

The OSGF described the reports as “misleading " and labelled accusations of “impunity” and procedural breaches as baseless.

“The claims of tenure illegality… are therefore unfounded and misleading,” Imohiosen added.

The office urged the public and stakeholders to disregard what it called a “false narrative” designed to undermine legitimate executive action.

This is Professor Mustapha’s second and final term as head of the NBRDA, a federal agency charged with advancing biotechnology research and innovation in Nigeria.