President Bola Tinubu has made a key appointment, naming Olatunji Bello as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Executive Vice-Chairman (EVC) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
News About Nigeria reports that this appointment is subject to confirmation by the Senate.
According to a statement released by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Bello brings a wealth of experience to the role.
He is a qualified lawyer, a seasoned administrator, and an accomplished journalist.
Bello’s appointment is pending confirmation by the Senate, after which he will officially take the helm at the FCCPC.
The Commission plays a crucial role in promoting fair competition and protecting consumer rights in Nigeria.
With his diverse background and expertise, Olatunji Bello is well-equipped to lead the FCCPC in its mission to ensure a level playing field for businesses and safeguard the interests of consumers.
His appointment is a significant development in the President’s efforts to strengthen key institutions and promote economic growth.
“He is the former secretary to the Lagos State Government and holds a Master’s degree in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Lagos. He studied Law at the same university and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2002,” Ngelale said.
“Mr. Bello began his career in journalism at the Concord Newspapers in 1985 and held the positions of Group Political Editor; Sunday Concord Editor, and Editor, National Concord.
“He is a winner of the US Alfred Friendly Press Fellowship and was appointed the Chairman, Editorial Board of THISDAY Newspapers in 2001.
“He also served as Commissioner for Environment under various administrations in Lagos State.”
Ngelale said Tinubu expects Bello to ensure the holistic realisation of FCCPC’s mandate of protecting and promoting the interests and welfare of Nigerian consumers and ensuring the adoption of measures to guarantee the safety and quality of goods and services.
His appointment comes six months after Tinubu removed Babatunde Irukera as the CEO and EVC.
Irukera was appointed director general (DG) of the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) in April 2017, however, after the transition of the CPC into the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission in December 2019, he became the EVC.
