From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Engr. Prof. Mohammad Sani Haruna, OFR, mni, has been described as a leader who successfully merged engineering expertise with policy-making, setting a benchmark for public service excellence in Nigeria. This recognition comes on the heels of his 2022 The Sun Newspaper Public Servant Award, which highlighted his transformative contributions to the nation’s technological advancement.
in an interview with Mukhtar Saeed Ciroma, a prominent broadcaster with state owned Broadcast station in Lafia on Thursday during a programme organised to celebrate his achievement during his time as NASENI Boss
Muktar described the former NASENI Boss as a respected engineer and academic noting that he is widely celebrated for his achievements during his tenure as the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI). Credited his leadership for turning the agency into a hub of innovation and self-reliance in engineering.
“Prof. Haruna’s dedication to developing Nigeria’s engineering sector is unmatched. His tenure at NASENI showed how engineering can drive national growth,” he said.
Under his leadership, NASENI initiated groundbreaking projects, including renewable energy solutions, manufacturing tools, and power equipment production. These efforts, according to President Muhammadu Buhari, who conferred on him the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 2022, showcased “effective management and vision for achieving remarkable national development.”
HE further stated that Prof. Haruna’s career trajectory reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence, from his early days as a technician to his leadership roles in academia and public service. His educational background is equally impressive, with two PhDs—one in Electrical Engineering from Bayero University, Kano, and another in Entrepreneurship from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya.
Beyond his achievements at NASENI, Haruna’s global contributions include representing Nigeria at the United Nations General Assembly and participating in summits like the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). He is also a Fellow of several prestigious institutions, including the Nigerian Academy of Engineering and the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET).
Speaking on his influence, Prof. Ahmed Yusuf, a visiting professor, Federal University of Lafia noted, “He has redefined engineering and innovation in Nigeria. His leadership is a roadmap for future policymakers and engineers.”
Haruna’s recognition with The Sun Newspaper Public Servant Award and other accolades explains his enduring legacy as a transformative leader in engineering and public service, inspiring a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers in Nigeria.