A group of engineers under the auspices of Borno Technology Development Foundation (BTDF) has hailed the appointment of Engr. Kabir Mohammed Wanori as the Executive Secretary of the newly created Borno State Information and Technology Communication Development Agency.
The appointment by the state governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum was announced on Friday, 8th February 2024.
The governor said that Wanori’s appointment was made on merit and his proven track record in advancing ICT initiatives. He expressed confidence in the appointee’s ability to drive innovation and progress in the agency.
In a statement at the weekend in Maiduguri, the state capital, by the spokesperson of the foundation, Alhaji Bukar Mohammed described the appointment as that of a round peg in a round hole.
He applauded Wanori an astute engineer, who has a wide-range experience and exposure in human development and innovative thinking.
The group said that Wanori’s appointment would drive youth engagement in social entrepreneurship and digital economy of the state at this auspicious period.
The statement further read: “This appointment is a round peg in a round hole. We are confident that Engr. Wanori is up to the task, as we have no doubt whatsoever in our minds that his appointment will chart a new course for rapid social entrepreneurship growth and knowledge-based hi-tech economy of our dear state.
“The appointee will bring to bear on the agency his vast knowledge of management, leadership and global networking for which he is known”.
In his congratulatory message to the new appointee, the Deputy National Chairman (North) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. (Dr.) Ali Dalori expressed optimism about Wanori’s commitment and dedicated service to the people of Borno State and said he looked forward to the positive impact he would make in the realm of information and communication technology.
In the statement by Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Hon. Yemi Akinbode, the party leader said: “On behalf of the good people of Borno State, I want to congratulate my brother and friend, Engr. Kabir Wanori on his appointment as the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Information Technology and Communication Development Agency. This appointment cannot come at a better time because of the cravings by our youths to stepping into the innovative space where they can experience a new vista for knowledge and digital economy, which has defined the lives of youth around the globe. I am confident that the appointee will do all that are required to stimulate the development of ICT and innovative thinking by our socially-mobile young people in the fast-growing digital world”.
Dalori also commended Zulum for finding Wanori worthy of the honour.
A top-notch technocrat and politician, Wanori parades a huge credential and experience prior to his new role having served as the Commissioner for Environment, and later Intergovernmental and Special Duties from 2019 to 2023. His extensive background also included stints as a Special Adviser to former Borno State governor from 2011 to 2014 and 2015 to 2019. He also held leadership positions in prominent communication companies such as Sky Network Communications and ABG Communications Limited.
Educated at the University of Maiduguri with a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Wanori has been recognised with over 15 awards and honours, notably the Presidential Award for Excellent Service to the Society by the Nigerian Society of Engineers in 2022. He has been lauded as an ‘Icon of Humanitarian Services’ for his significant contributions to societal transformation and support for youth and students by the ECOWAS Youth Parliament.
