President Muhammadu Buhari has officially confirmed the appointment of Dr. Mina Ogbanga as a member of the National Stakeholders Working Group (NSWG) of the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI).
The secretary of general services, on behalf of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, presented her with a letter of appointment in Abuja.
Ogbanga will serve as the representative of the Civil Society constituency on the NEITI Board, also known as the NSWG. The letter of confirmation stated that her appointment is effective from January 17, 2023, for an initial four-year term. The decision comes after a competitive election held on March 8, 2023, among civil society organizations, where she emerged as the winner.
Expressing her gratitude, Ogbanga acknowledged the collective effort that led to her election and emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of the civil society constituency and beyond. She accepted her confirmation with humility and expressed her commitment to inclusive leadership, urging all stakeholders to unite in achieving success in the extractive sector.
Ogbanga stated: “I look forward to working with all cadre of civil society to ensure an inclusive leadership where no one is left behind. I call for support from all stakeholders to join hands as we strive to achieve success on this journey.” She recognised the role of civil society organizations and development partners in nation-building, emphasising that this is a task for everyone involved.
Furthermore, she emphasized the significance of the next four years and called for concerted efforts to improve the extractive sector for the benefit of Nigerians both at home and abroad. Ogbanga encouraged collaboration and urged everyone to contribute to making society and the extractive sector better than before.
With her appointment, Ogbanga aims to steer the CSO space on the NEITI Board towards societal transformation. She expressed her determination to enhance the extractive sector and ensure that it serves the interests of all stakeholders. Ogbanga’s confirmation represents a positive step towards transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s extractive industries.
As she embarks on her new role, Ogbanga seeks the support and cooperation of all stakeholders to fulfil the responsibilities entrusted to her. With a united effort, she believes that the next four years can bring about positive change and advancements for the Nigerian people.
