Tayo Busayo, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – President Bola Tinubu on Monday presided over the swearing-in ceremony of newly appointed members of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), the Federal Character Commission (FCC), the National Population Commission (NPC), and eight newly appointed Permanent Secretaries.
The event, held at the Council Chamber of the State House in Abuja, marked a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s federal institutions and civil service.
The ceremony, which took place before the commencement of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, saw 21 members of the RMAFC, one new member each for the FCC and NPC, and eight Permanent Secretaries take their oaths of office. The newly appointed officials were selected through a rigorous process, including written and oral examinations, as well as ICT competency tests.
New Permanent Secretaries Bring Diverse Expertise
Among the newly sworn-in Permanent Secretaries is Dr. Onwusoro Ihemelandu, an optometrist from Abia State and a World Bank-certified procurement expert. Dr. Ihemelandu, who joined the Federal Civil Service in 1997, has served as Director of Procurement in several ministries, including Environment, Labour and Employment, and Interior. His appointment reflects the administration’s commitment to leveraging expertise in procurement and healthcare administration.
Also sworn in was Philip Ebiogeh Ndiomu from Bayelsa State, an agricultural expert with a track record of empowering over 5,500 women, youths, and vulnerable groups through initiatives at the Ministry of Niger Delta Development. Dr. Anuma Nlia, a medical doctor and healthcare administrator from Ebonyi State, was also appointed. Dr. Nlia, a Fellow of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s tertiary healthcare sector through policy implementation and hospital upgrades.
Other notable appointees include Chinasa Nnam Ogbodo, an accountant from Enugu State, who has held key financial roles in various ministries, and Dr. Kalba Danjuma Usman, a pioneering urologist from Gombe State who introduced LASER surgery in Nigeria. Dr. Salihu Aminu Usman from Kebbi State, a seasoned accountant and management expert, and Patience Nwakuso Oyekunle from Rivers State, a biochemist with extensive experience in policy formulation and strategic planning, were also sworn in.
Engr. Nadungu Gagare, an agricultural engineer from Kaduna State, rounded out the list of new Permanent Secretaries. Known for his contributions to mechanized agriculture and rural development, Engr. Gagare has executed high-impact projects, including the development of rice parboiling equipment and cassava processing centers.
RMAFC, FCC, and NPC Commissioners Sworn In
President Tinubu also swore in 21 new Commissioners for the RMAFC, representing various states across the country. The new Commissioners include Nkechi Oti Linda (Abia), Barr. Imo Efiong Akpan (Akwa Ibom), Hon. Ekene Enefe (Anambra), and Prof. Steve Davies Ugbah (Benue), among others. Their appointment is expected to enhance the Commission’s role in ensuring equitable revenue allocation and fiscal responsibility.
Mr. Kayode Oladele was sworn in as the new Federal Commissioner for the FCC, while Pastor (Mrs) Iyantan Olukemi Victoria took the oath of office as the NPC’s Federal Commissioner. Their appointments underscore the administration’s focus on promoting fairness, equity, and accurate population data for national development.
President Tinubu’s Commitment to Strengthening Institutions
In his remarks, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of the newly appointed officials in driving the administration’s agenda for good governance, transparency, and service delivery. He urged them to uphold the highest standards of integrity and dedication in their respective roles.
“The task before you is critical to the development of our nation. You must work tirelessly to ensure that the resources of this country are managed judiciously and that every Nigerian benefits from the dividends of democracy,” the President stated.
The swearing-in ceremony highlights the administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s federal institutions and civil service by appointing highly qualified and experienced professionals. The new appointees are expected to bring their expertise to bear in advancing the nation’s development goals.
