Daniel Adaji
The newly appointed Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO), Engr. Magaji Da’u Aliyu, has lauded President Bola Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him, as he unveiled a strategic roadmap to reposition the institution for national development.
Aliyu, who formally assumed office on Monday, expressed “profound gratitude” to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as well as the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, and other relevant authorities for his appointment.
A Member of the National Institute (mni) and former Chairman, House Committee on Power, Aliyu said he accepted the responsibility “with a strong sense of duty, humility, and commitment to service.”
In his maiden address to management and staff at the Complex in Abuja, Aliyu underscored the strategic importance of science and technology to Nigeria’s future.
“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.
He also acknowledged the support of the Governing Board and stakeholders, stating, “I would also like to sincerely appreciate the Governing Board for its guidance and oversight, and to thank all stakeholders whose support continues to strengthen this institution.”
Aliyu paid tribute to his predecessors, describing government as a continuum, and commended past leadership for their sacrifices and contributions to sustaining and advancing the Complex.
Unveiling his strategic development roadmap, the new DG outlined five priority areas to reposition SHESTCO as a “dynamic, results-oriented, and globally relevant institution that delivers measurable impact for national development.”
The roadmap focuses on strengthening research and innovation through demand-driven projects in agriculture, health, energy, environment, manufacturing, and digital technology, with emphasis on commercialization and scalability.
On human capital development, he said: “Our greatest asset is our people. We will invest in continuous capacity building, skills development, and knowledge exchange for staff, researchers, and young innovators. Merit, professionalism, and teamwork will be encouraged and rewarded.”
Aliyu stressed the need for robust partnerships, noting that “No institution succeeds in isolation.” He pledged to deepen collaboration with universities, research institutes, the private sector, international organizations, and development partners.
He further promised that transparency, financial discipline, and ethical leadership would define his administration, alongside improvements in infrastructure, laboratories, and digital transformation to enhance operational efficiency.
Calling for unity and collective responsibility, he urged staff to embrace change and recommit to excellence.
“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.
Aliyu pledged to serve “with integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of science and technology for the benefit of Nigeria,” adding that history would judge the institution by its results.
In his handover remarks, the outgoing Overseeing Director, Dr. Abayomi Orishadipe, expressed confidence in Aliyu’s leadership, saying he believes the new DG will lead SHESTCO to greater heights.
Also speaking, Director of Administration, Mrs. Olayinka Odukogbe, described Aliyu’s appointment as the beginning of “a new era” for the Complex and urged staff to support the new administration.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Engr. Dr. Mrs. Edith Ishidi of the Polymer Engineering Unit, who expressed optimism that the new leadership would enhance staff productivity and move SHESTCO’s research outputs closer to the marketplace.
