President Tinubu Announces New Appointments Across Key Education Agencies
President Bola Tinubu has approved a fresh round of appointments for several critical education agencies in Nigeria, signaling a renewed focus on strengthening governance and driving reforms in the sector. The appointments span the National Examinations Council (NECO), the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), the Federal Polytechnic in N’yak-Shendam, Plateau State, and the National Library of Nigeria.
Appointments at NECO and Federal Polytechnic
For NECO, Prof. Modupe Adeola Adelabu has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Governing Board. Meanwhile, Prof. Ibrahim Dantani Wushishi will continue in his role as Registrar, ensuring continuity in the council's operations. In the polytechnic sub-sector, Dr. Bongfa Binfa has been named as the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, N’yak-Shendam, Plateau State. He succeeds Dr. Mukaila Zakari Ya’u, whose tenure concluded on March 16, 2026.
Dr. Binfa's appointment follows a competitive selection process that began with a public advertisement in September 2025. He holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and brings extensive experience from his previous positions, including serving as Deputy Rector (Academic) at the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny, and as a lecturer in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the Federal Polytechnic, Idah.
Leadership Changes at NBTE and National Library
President Tinubu has also appointed Prof. Babatunde Salako as the Chairman of the Governing Board for NBTE. This move comes after the reappointment of Prof. Idris M. Bugaje as Executive Secretary for a second and final five-year term on April 10. Prof. Salako is a distinguished researcher with a strong background in higher education and policy leadership, having served as Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) from 2016 to 2024. During his tenure, NIMR achieved significant advancements in research governance, infrastructure development, and international collaborations.
Additionally, the President has approved the renewal of Professor Chinwe Veronica Anunobi's tenure as Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Library of Nigeria for a final five-year term. Initially appointed on September 2, 2021, Prof. Anunobi has overseen substantial reforms aimed at transforming the institution into a technology-driven knowledge hub.
Confidence in Continuity and Reform
President Tinubu expressed confidence that these appointments will ensure continuity in ongoing reforms, facilitate the completion of key projects such as the headquarters development, and support the successful implementation of strategic plans, including the 2025-2030 framework for the National Library. These steps are part of a broader effort to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of Nigeria's education system under the Renewed Mandate initiative.
