Following an extensive audit of the Rural Electrification Agency’s (REA) accounts, President Bola Tinubu has enacted a leadership overhaul.
The inquiry, which revealed a suspected misappropriation of ₦1.2 billion, led to the suspension of Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad, the agency’s Managing Director, and three other top executives.
Concurrently, President Tinubu has instated a provisional management team, naming Abba Abubakar Aliyu as the new Managing Director and CEO. This team is tasked with steering the REA towards improved accountability and efficiency.
Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Media and Publicity Advisor, announced that the suspensions are part of a broader initiative to ensure fiscal responsibility within the agency.
The anti-corruption body leading the investigation has already recouped a portion of the misallocated funds, and President Tinubu has mandated a more extensive inquiry to prevent future financial misconduct.
The reshuffle affects several key positions within the REA:
- Olaniyi Alaba Netufo, Executive Director of Corporate Services
- Barka Sajou, Executive Director of Technical Services
- Sa’adatu Balgore, Executive Director of the Rural Electrification Fund (REF)
Assuming their roles in an acting capacity are:
- Ayoade Gboyega, Corporate Services
- Umar Abdullahi Umar, Technical Services
- Doris Uboh, Rural Electrification Fund (REF)
- Olufemi Akinyelure, Project Management Unit, Nigeria Electrification Project
In his statement, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of integrity and public service, asserting his commitment to fulfilling Nigerians’ aspirations for effective governance and superior service delivery. He expects the new appointees to embody these principles as they contribute to the nation’s progress.
