Breaking News: Senate Confirms Dr. Badamasi Lawal as New NSIPA CEO

In a significant move aimed at revitalizing the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), the Senate has confirmed Dr. Badamasi Lawal as the new National Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the agency. The confirmation comes after a thorough screening process and the adoption of the report of the Senate Committee on Poverty Alleviation and Social Investments.

According to Senator Idiat Adebule, Chairperson of the Committee, Lawal demonstrated exceptional competence and knowledge on social investment concerns during his screening. “The nominee displayed absolute knowledge on social investment concerns. He has the requisite qualifications and knowledge of the job,” Adebule said. Sen. Diket Plang, a member of the Committee, added that Lawal is “mentally alert and very responsible,” emphasizing the importance of selecting individuals who are not only qualified but also mentally sound for such a critical national assignment.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, welcomed the appointment, saying that it marks a new chapter for the agency, which has been plagued by scandals in recent months. “I believe that his coming will put an end to all these. I wish him well on behalf of the 10th Senate,” Akpabio said. Lawal’s appointment is subject to Senate’s confirmation, but his nomination was made by President Bola Tinubu on August 8.

A seasoned public servant, Lawal previously served as a Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Katsina State. He replaces Halima Shehu, the former CEO of NSIPA, who was suspended by the President over alleged financial improprieties. With his confirmation, Lawal is set to lead the agency towards a new era of transparency and accountability, ensuring that the social investment programmes are implemented effectively and efficiently to benefit the Nigerian people.