The Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, has received the distinguished award for Engineering and Industrial Innovation at the 2nd edition of the Nigeria Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS). The award, presented by Vice President Sen. Kashim Shettima, GCON, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, recognizes Mr. Halilu’s outstanding performance and transformational leadership in his first year in office.
The presentation ceremony took place at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Saturday, 6th July 2024, celebrating public servants who have significantly contributed to the nation’s development. Mr. Halilu’s recognition underscores his unwavering commitment to making NASENI a hub of technology transfer and innovation in Nigeria and across Africa.
Under Halilu’s leadership, NASENI has undergone transformational reforms aimed at fostering technological advancements and industrial growth. His visionary approach has driven the agency to new heights with initiatives that have positioned NASENI as a leading hub for innovation, showcasing Nigeria’s manufacturing capabilities. These efforts include developing cutting-edge technologies, promoting sustainable industrial practices, and fostering strategic partnerships with leading industry players to enhance Nigeria’s competitive edge in the global market.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Halilu expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, Vice President Shettima, and the entire NASENI team. He emphasized that the recognition is a collective achievement reflecting the hard work and dedication of everyone at NASENI. “This award is a recognition of our commitment to advancing engineering and industrial innovation in Nigeria. It is a testament to the efforts of the entire NASENI team, and I am deeply honored to accept it on their behalf,” Mr. Halilu stated.
The award not only highlights Mr. Halilu’s contributions over the past year but also sets a benchmark for future endeavors aimed at driving technological and industrial innovation in Nigeria and beyond. NASENI remains committed to its mission of fostering sustainable development through technological innovation, and this award validates its ongoing efforts to impact the nation’s industrial landscape.
Other eminent Nigerians honored at the event included General Abdulsalami Abubakar, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Chief of Staff to the President Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and various former and serving governors, ministers, lawmakers, and heads of government MDAs.