Coalition Urges Recall Of Productivity Centre DG

A coalition, the Centre for Civil Relations, Open Dialogue and Development, has called for Dr Nasir Olaitan Raji-Mustapha’s reinstatement as the director-general of the National Productivity Centre (NPC).

Addressing newsmen yesterday in Abuja, the head of its legal service, Barr. Joseph Ndaguba, stressed the critical role of the NPC in fostering productivity across all sectors of the economy.

The coalition appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his responsiveness to previous concerns, highlighting the administration’s commitment to delivering on its renewed hope agenda.

Ndaguba said Raji-Mustapha, who has dedicated three decades to the NPC, starting as an Assistant Productivity Officer, is lauded for his deep institutional knowledge and effective leadership. Under his guidance, the NPC has achieved significant milestones, including establishing partnerships with international bodies and promoting a productivity culture that has positively impacted Nigeria’s economy.

The coalition expressed concern over the recent decision to replace Dr Raji-Mustapha with an appointee lacking the requisite qualifications and experience. It argued that this move undermines the principles of merit-based selection and threatens the NPC’s credibility and effectiveness.

Ndaguba emphasised the dangers of appointing unqualified individuals to critical positions, citing examples from other sectors where such decisions have led to significant setbacks.

“The educational and professional background of the newly appointed Director-General is alarmingly insufficient for the role’s demands. The consequences of this decision include diminished productivity, compromised organisational integrity, and potential setbacks in Nigeria’s socio-economic development,” he said.