Kaduna group lauds Zuntu’s appointment
The Kaduna State Development Initiative (KSDI) has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of Dr. Fatima Sulaiman-Zuntu as the new Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National
- •Stakeholders express confidence in her capacity
The Kaduna State Development Initiative (KSDI) has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of Dr. Fatima Sulaiman-Zuntu as the new Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA).
The group described the decision as a well-considered and strategic move for national development.
In a statement at the weekend by its president, Danladi Suleiman, KSDI said the appointment of the indigene of Zuntu Local Government Area of Kaduna state, reflected the President’s commitment to placing competent and experienced professionals in critical national institutions, particularly in areas that impact public health, environmental safety, and scientific innovation.
The group noted that Dr. Zuntu’s appointment happened when Nigeria is navigating complex biosafety challenges associated with biotechnology, food security, and public health regulation.
It noted that her expertise would be invaluable in strengthening institutional capacity.
According to the group, the President’s approval of Dr. Zuntu’s appointment for an initial four-year term, effective April 16, in line with the provisions of the NBMA Act, demonstrated adherence to due process and respect for statutory governance frameworks.
KSDI described Dr. Zuntu as a seasoned public health professional and policy strategist with a proven track record of delivering impactful national programmes, adding that her experience aligns perfectly with the agency’s mandate.
According to the group, the NBMA plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safe application of modern biotechnology, including genetically modified organisms, and requires leadership with both scientific depth and policy insight.
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“Dr. Zuntu possesses the intellectual capacity, administrative competence, and strategic vision required to reposition the agency for greater efficiency and global relevance,” the statement said.
KSDI expressed confidence that under her leadership, the NBMA would enhance regulatory frameworks, deepen stakeholder engagement, and promote 3zafe scientific advancements that benefit Nigerians.
It added that her background in public health and policy formulation places her in a strong position to bridge the gap between science, regulation, and public trust—an area often challenged by misinformation and limited awareness.
The group also praises President Tinubu for tasking the new appointee to deploy her expertise for the overall good of the nation, describing the directive as both clear and purposeful.
The statement reiterated the group’s confidence in Dr. Zuntu’s ability to deliver on the agency’s mandate.
KSDI urged Dr. Zuntu to prioritise transparency, accountability, and collaboration with both local and international partners to ensure that Nigeria remains compliant with global biosafety standards.
It also urged stakeholders in the scientific community, civil society, and the private sector to support the new DG in achieving the agency’s mandate, stressing that biosafety is a shared national responsibility.
KSDI concluded by reaffirming its belief that Dr. Zuntu has what it takes to succeed in the role and expressed optimism that her tenure will usher in a new era of growth, credibility, and impact for the agency.
