Governors’ forum makes four appointments

The Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) has made four senior-level appointments spanning human capital management, security, economic policy and communication.

According to a statement issued by the NGF’s Director of Media and Strategic Communication, Mr. Yunusa Tanko Abdullahi, the appointments were pursuant to the engagement of Deloitte by the Nigeria Governors Forum to reengineer the Secretariat and strengthen its operational processes in line with its core mandate as a subnational policy hub and resource centre.

He explained that “Deloitte conducted a comprehensive organisational transformational review.

“The scope included an extensive assessment of organisational systems, human resources, and operational procedures to ensure that the NGF functions in line with international best practice and remains focused on priority areas aligned with its strategic vision.

“Following the acceptance of Deloitte’s final report and guided by the report’s recommendations on structure and governance processes, the NGF has activated a new leadership framework with key appointments across strategic, programmatic, and administrative portfolios, marking a significant step in positioning the Secretariat as a modern subnational resource center and a responsive policy coordination hub for Nigeria’s 36 State Governors.

“Delivering high-impact programs, strengthening partnerships, and driving reforms that respond to the evolving governance landscape.

“These changes are not just administrative; they signal a deliberate shift toward a more agile and results-driven institution.

“In line with this renewed vision, the NGF has appointed and added accomplished professionals to drive critical directorates and advisory functions within the Secretariat.

“Each appointee brings a proven record of excellence in their field, a deep understanding of Nigeria’s governance and development priorities, and the expertise needed to translate strategic reforms into measurable results.

“Together, they represent the Forum’s commitment to building a high-performing, multidisciplinary leadership team that can continue to drive innovation, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and deliver tangible value to Member States.

“At the helm of this revitalised structure is Dr. Abdulateef Shittu, whose appointment as Director General has been pivotal in steering the Secretariat through one of the most ambitious phases of institutional reform in its history, enhancing its technical capacity, deepening interstate collaboration, and positioning it as a trusted policy and
coordination hub for Nigeria’s governors.

“His ability to navigate complex governance challenges, forge strategic partnerships, and drive reforms that strengthen good governance and sustainable development across the states is exemplary.

“Under his stewardship, the NGF Secretariat is set to build on these gains, ensuring it remains at the forefront of
subnational policy innovation and cooperative federalism in Nigeria.”

Other strategic appointments include: Mr. Edmund Nnaji – Executive Director, Finance & Administration; Professor Dauda Yinusa – Executive Director, Policy, Strategy & Research; Dr. Ahmad Abdulwahab – Executive Director, Programs & Partnerships; and Barrister Chuku Chijioke Chuku – General Counsel & Head, Energy.

Others are: Mrs. Hauwa Haliru-Hassan – Director, Gender Affairs & CEO Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum (NGSF); Dr. Ibrahim Ahmad Katsina – Senior Security Adviser; and Mr. Yunusa Tanko Abdullahi – Director of Media and Strategic Communication.

According to Mr. Abdullahi, “these structural alignment and new appointments further consolidate the Secretariat’s technical depth and sectoral expertise, ensuring stronger program delivery, cross-cutting policy coordination, and more robust engagement with member states and partners.

“These appointments underscore the NGF’s commitment to building a high performing, multidisciplinary leadership team capable of addressing Nigeria’s complex governance challenges—ranging from economic transformation and security to human capital development and effective public communication.”

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