President Tinubu Names Former Federal Lawmaker as Head of Science and Technology Complex
In a significant political development, President Bola Tinubu has announced the appointment of Hon. Magaji Da'u Aliyu as the new Managing Director of the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO). The announcement was made public on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, through an official statement released by Bayo Onanuga, the President's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.
Background of the New SHESTCO Managing Director
Hon. Magaji Da'u Aliyu brings substantial legislative experience to his new role, having served as a two-term member of the House of Representatives in both the eighth and ninth National Assemblies. During his tenure in the National Assembly, he represented the Birnin Kudu/Buji Federal Constituency of Jigawa State with distinction.
Between 2019 and 2023, Aliyu held the influential position of Chairman of the House Committee on Power, where he oversaw critical legislative matters related to Nigeria's energy sector. His appointment to SHESTCO marks a transition from legislative duties to a key administrative role in the nation's scientific research infrastructure.
Responsibilities of SHESTCO
The Sheda Science and Technology Complex plays a crucial role in Nigeria's technological advancement landscape. According to the presidential statement, SHESTCO is primarily responsible for conducting research and development in various technology fields. Additionally, the complex operates a nuclear research facility, positioning it at the forefront of Nigeria's scientific innovation efforts.
This appointment comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking to strengthen its scientific research capabilities and technological development across multiple sectors. The selection of a former legislator with experience in power sector oversight suggests a strategic alignment between SHESTCO's mission and national development priorities.
Political Significance of the Appointment
The appointment of Hon. Magaji Da'u Aliyu represents President Tinubu's continued efforts to place experienced political figures in key administrative positions. As a two-term federal lawmaker who chaired an important House committee, Aliyu brings both political acumen and legislative experience to his new role at SHESTCO.
This move also highlights the administration's focus on leveraging the expertise of former legislators in driving national development initiatives, particularly in the critical areas of science and technology research. The appointment has generated positive reactions among political observers who see it as a strategic placement of experienced leadership in a vital research institution.
The development underscores the Tinubu administration's commitment to strengthening Nigeria's scientific research infrastructure while recognizing the valuable contributions of experienced political figures in advancing national development goals.
