Criticism trails President Tinubu’s newest appointment over qualification considerations of nominee
The appointment of Fatima Zuntu as director-general of the Nationwide Biosafety Administration Company (NBMA) has sparked criticism over considerations about her {qualifications} and expertise.
Zuntu was appointed by President Bola Tinubu for a four-year time period efficient April 16 in an announcement the presidency described her as a public well being skilled and coverage strategist.
Nevertheless, stakeholders and a few officers inside the company have questioned her eligibility. They cited provisions of the NBMA Act, 2015, which require a minimal of 15 years’ cognate expertise in biosafety, biodiversity or associated fields.
Critics stated Zuntu’s publicly accessible profile suggests she might not meet the requirement.
The company regulates biotechnology and Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in Nigeria. Considerations have additionally been raised about management instability on the company. Inside the previous three years, the NBMA has had a number of heads.
Agnes Asagbra, appointed in 2023, didn’t full her tenure, whereas Bello Bwari resigned after about six months.
A senior official, who declined to be named, stated the company has confronted challenges with management appointments.
“We’ve not been fortunate at this company with the appointment of DGs,” the official instructed Premium Instances after the appointment.
One other official stated skilled administrators inside the company have been neglected.
“This girl is simply approaching 30 years previous. She is just not skilled in any respect. How do they need her to guide?” the supply stated.
Tosin Arebuwa, a commentator, criticised what he described as restricted expertise.
“In lower than 10 years, she’s labored six completely different jobs throughout six completely different organisations. The place is the place of depth and experience?” he queried.
Zuntu holds a level in drugs from the College of Maiduguri and a grasp’s in public well being from the College of South Wales. She has labored in scientific follow, public well being and healthcare administration.