The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Youth Development, Martins Esin, has urged the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency For Science and Engineering Infrastructure, Alhaji Khalil Suleiman Halilu, to justify the confidence reposed in him by the President Bola Tinubu administration, saying his appointment is a litmus test for Nigerian youths.
This is as he commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing more youths into strategic positions, adding that youth inclusiveness in the administration is “a conscious national succession plan” to bequeath future leadership of the country into their hands.
President Bola Tinubu had on Friday announced the appointment of Kano State-born Alhaji Khalil Suleiman Halilu, as the new Executive Officer of NASENI.
Halilu replaced the vice chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Dr. Bashir Gwandu, who was appointed during the last lap of former President Muhammadu Buhari administration.
Esin, who is representing Oron/Mbo/Okobo/Udung Uko/Urueoffong Oruko Federal Constituency said this in a statement he issued in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Friday.
He said, “The appointment of Khalil is a further testament to the President’s commitment towards youth inclusion in government. It’s heartwarming and worth commending.
“The quality of youth being brought on board by Mr. President suggests a conscious national succession plan. Other things being equal, we won’t experience a leadership void in the nearest future” the lawmaker said adding that Tinubu’s appointment is not the usual practice of political patronage and social rehabilitation at the expense of merit.
He expressed hope that “By their training, educational qualifications, character and personal accomplishments, these youth will easily grow into national leadership. This is a good development, which should be promoted as a national culture.’
While congratulating the new CEO, the lawmaker said”At your young age, you are already a well-respected serial innovator and tech expert of international repute. The agency you have been appointed to oversee is in the area of your passion and expertise.
“Sincerely, I expect you to surpass expectations in no time and take a higher responsibility soon. Your appointment is both a boost to Nigerian youth and a litmus test for them.”
He charged Nigerian youth to take a cue from members of their generation who have been appointed to occupy national positions, explaining that from the various communities and private organisations across the country, Local Government Areas, States and federal agencies, there was an abundance of opportunities for youth who decide to distinguish themselves in leadership and service delivery.
