By Nkechi Eze
The newly appointed Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Sheda Science and Technology Complex, Hon. Engr. Dr. Magaji Da’u Aliyu, has formally assumed office, unveiling an ambitious vision to reposition the institution as a globally competitive hub for scientific innovation and national development.
Speaking during his assumption of duty ceremony in Abuja on Monday, Magaji expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him through his appointment. He also extended appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, the Governing Board, and key stakeholders for their support and trust.
A Member of the National Institute (mni) and Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the new Director-General said he was assuming office with humility, a strong sense of duty, and an unwavering commitment to national service. He paid glowing tribute to his predecessors and past leadership of the Complex, acknowledging their sacrifices and invaluable contributions toward sustaining and advancing the institution.
Addressing members of staff, the former two-term member of the House of Representatives emphasized the strategic importance of the Complex within Nigeria’s development framework, stressing that science, technology, and innovation have become indispensable drivers of economic diversification, industrial growth, job creation, national security, and sustainable development.
“Science, technology and innovation are no longer optional drivers of progress; they are essential tools for economic diversification, industrial growth, job creation, national security and sustainable development,” he said.
Magaji noted that the Complex’s mandate places it at the forefront of research, innovation, capacity building, and the translation of scientific knowledge into practical solutions that directly improve the lives of Nigerians. He charged staff to uphold the highest standards of excellence, integrity, collaboration, and forward-thinking in the discharge of their responsibilities.
Outlining his strategic direction, he disclosed that his administration would prioritize demand-driven and commercializable research in key sectors such as agriculture, health, energy, environment, manufacturing, and digital technology. He further pledged to strengthen human capital development through continuous training and skills enhancement for researchers and emerging innovators, while promoting merit, professionalism, and teamwork.
The Director-General also underscored the importance of partnerships, noting that his leadership would actively foster collaboration with universities, research institutes, the private sector, international organisations, and development partners to leverage resources and accelerate national impact.
On governance and institutional management, Magaji assured that transparency, financial discipline, and ethical leadership would remain central to his administration. He promised prudent utilization of public resources, strict adherence to due process, and sustained investment in modern research infrastructure, laboratories, and digital transformation initiatives to enhance operational efficiency.
“Change may not always be easy, but it is necessary. Together, with unity of purpose and collective commitment, we can overcome challenges and elevate this institution to greater heights,” he said, pledging to serve with integrity and courage.
In his handover remarks, the outgoing Overseeing Director, Abayomi Orishadipe, highlighted achievements recorded during his tenure, noting that they were aimed at advancing science and technology and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s development. He expressed confidence in Magaji’s ability to consolidate on the gains and lead the Complex to greater heights.
Also speaking, the Director of Administration, Olayinka Odukogbe, described the appointment as the dawn of a new era for the institution, expressing optimism that Magaji’s leadership would introduce innovation and a renewed roadmap toward achieving the Complex’s mandate.
Similarly, the Head of the Polymer Engineering Unit of the Physics Advanced Research Centre, Edith Ishidi, welcomed the appointment, expressing confidence that an effective and efficient system under the new leadership would boost staff productivity and ensure that research outcomes translate into tangible economic and national benefits.
The ceremony marked a significant leadership transition at the Complex, with stakeholders expressing strong optimism that the new Director-General’s vision and experience would usher in a transformative phase for Nigeria’s science and technology sector.
