The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency says the reappointment of its director-general Abdullahi Mustapha, for a second tenure, was duly authorised by President Bola Tinubu.

“The renewal of the appointment of Prof. Mustapha was duly authorised by President Bola Tinubu, in accordance with the provisions of Sections 10(1) and (3) of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (Establishment) Act, 2022.

“This presidential approval was conveyed through a formal letter signed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, dated Nov. 6, 2024, with reference number SGF.51/S.4/T./84,” said a statement on Tuesday, NBRDA spokeswoman Toyin Omozuwa.

The statement said the SGF acted as an authorised channel in communicating the president’s decision. It noted that the claim that the renewal of an appointment violated extant regulations was inaccurate and unfounded.

The agency restated that the director-general’s reappointment for a final five-year term, effective October 31, 2024, was grounded in legal conformity, merit, and continued institutional progress.

The statement said that under Mr Mustapha’s leadership, NBRDA had made notable strides in enhancing indigenous pharmaceutical production and advancing research capacity.

(NAN)