A coalition advocating for change has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rescind his decision to appoint a new Director General for the National Productivity Centre (NPC).
The coalition contends that the NPC has traditionally been a professional training ground where successive DGs have risen through the ranks, ensuring expertise and continuity in leadership.
In a statement released on Sunday, Laide Ganiyu, Secretary of the coalition, emphasized the importance of maintaining professional standards within the NPC.
He argued that the abrupt relief of the current Director General, Dr Raji Mustapha, contradicts the centre’s established tradition and could hinder the NPC’s mission to enhance productivity in Nigeria.
Ganiyu referred to Dr Mustapha’s extensive experience and long-standing service at the NPC, stating, “The current Director General, Dr Raji Mustapha, joined the centre as an assistant productivity officer about 30 years ago and rose through the ranks to become the DG in May 2023, following the expiration of his predecessor’s tenure.”
He noted that Dr. Mustapha’s appointment was properly briefed and ratified by former Minister of Labour, Senator Dr. Chris Ngige, under the administration of former President Buhari.
Ganiyu argued that President Tinubu’s decision to appoint a new DG undermines the NPC’s objective of fostering a productive society and could disrupt ongoing productivity initiatives.
“There is no way a political appointee, who does not understand the intricacies of a productivity-linked society, can effectively lead the centre in training both private and public organizations,” Ganiyu warned.
He expressed concern over the potential consequences of allowing political influences to infiltrate the NPC, a body traditionally dedicated to professional training and productivity enhancement.
Ganiyu urged President Tinubu to reconsider and reverse the appointment to preserve the integrity and effectiveness of the NPC.
”There is a need to maintain professionalism and meritocracy within key national institutions to ensure their continued success and impact on Nigeria’s development,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has directed its committees on public service matters and legislative compliance to investigate the revised section 8 (020819) of the government policy concerning compulsory retirement for public servants who have served eight years as directors in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
This resolution follows the adoption of a motion introduced by House Leader Hon. Julius O. Ihonvbere, Minority Leader Hon. Kingsley Chinda, and Hon. Ishaya Lalu.
The motion raises concerns over a government circular dated July 27, 2023, titled “THE REVISED PUBLIC SERVICE RULES (PSR)” issued by the Head of Service.
