Meet Muhammad Sani Abdullahi Dattijo, Nominated Deputy Governor of Nigeria’s Central Bank

President Bola Tinubu has approved the nomination of Dr. Olayemi Michael Cardoso to serve as the new Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), for a term of five (5) years at the first instance, pending his confirmation by the Nigerian Senate.

This directive is in conformity with Section 8 (1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, which vests in the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the authority to appoint the Governor and Four (4) Deputy Governors for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), subject to confirmation by the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Among the candidates nominated to lead Nigeria’s central bank is Muhammad Abdullahi Sani Dattijo, widely recognized as Muhammad Sani Abdullahi or simply Dattijo. Dattijo is a prominent figure in the field of international development and has dedicated his career to public service in Nigeria. His remarkable journey includes a significant role as a policy adviser at the Executive Office of the United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon, based in New York. Notably, Dattijo played a pivotal role as a key member of the team responsible for crafting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

President Bola Tinubu according to the official statement, approved the nomination of four new Deputy Governors of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), for a term of five (5) years at the first instance, pending their confirmation by the Nigerian Senate, as listed below: (1) Mrs. Emem Nnana Usoro (2) Mr. Muhammad Sani Abdullahi Dattijo (3) Mr. Philip Ikeazor (4) Dr. Bala M. Bello.

Who is Muhammad Sani Abdullahi Dattijo?

Nigeria’s President Tinubu appointed four deputy governors in “conformity with Section 8 (1) of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, which vests in the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the authority to appoint the governor and four (4) deputy governors for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), subject to confirmation by the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

Muhammad’s journey through the corridors of development policy and public finance has not only shaped his career but also the economic landscape of Nigeria. With over two decades of experience, he has worn many hats, from being a senatorial candidate to serving as a policy adviser at the Executive Office of the United Nations Secretary-General. His remarkable career has been marked by influential roles, groundbreaking contributions, and a relentless commitment to sustainable development.

Early Foundations

Muhammad’s academic journey laid the foundation for his illustrious career. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Ahmadu Bello University, he embarked on a quest for knowledge that would eventually lead him to prestigious institutions around the world. He honed his skills further, earning a Master’s in International Affairs and Diplomacy from the University of Manchester, an MSc in Development Economics and Policy from Columbia University, and additional qualifications from renowned institutions like Oxford University and the London School of Economics.

A Multifaceted Career

Muhammad’s career trajectory reads like a roadmap to influence and change. His role as a Policy Adviser at the Executive Office of the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon in New York placed him at the heart of global policymaking. Notably, he was a core member of the team responsible for designing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which have since become a guiding light for global development.

However, his impact wasn’t confined to international spheres alone. Muhammad served as Commissioner of Planning and Budget for over five years in Kaduna State, a role that made him a linchpin in shaping the state’s fiscal strategy and policy implementation. During this tenure, he played a pivotal role in designing the state’s Development Plan, Infrastructural Master Plan, Industrial Policy, SDGs report, and various other policy documents. His leadership facilitated the largest infrastructure expansion in the state’s history.

As Chief of Staff to the State Governor, Muhammad’s responsibilities extended to coordinating and implementing government policy across all sectors. He chaired the Infrastructure Council, overseeing a comprehensive portfolio of economic and social infrastructure projects spanning all 23 Local Governments of the State. His tenure saw the realization of critical development initiatives.

An Expert on the World Stage

Muhammad’s influence also extends to the international community. He is a member of the World Bank Expert Advisory Council on citizen engagement, where he provides invaluable insights into fostering citizen participation in development projects. His contributions in this capacity aid in shaping more inclusive and effective development strategies.

Doctoral Pursuits and Beyond

Muhammad’s thirst for knowledge continues with his ongoing doctoral research at the Henley Business School in Reading University, United Kingdom. His focus on Global Value Chains, Informality, and Development in Sub-Saharan Africa showcases his commitment to addressing contemporary development challenges.

Muhammad’s journey is a testament to the power of expertise, dedication, and vision in the realm of development policy and public finance. With his extensive experience, global perspective, and ongoing research, he stands as a beacon of hope for a more prosperous and sustainable future, not only for Nigeria but also for the world.

Awards and Recognitions

Muhammad’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. He has received several awards, including the British Chevening Scholarship Award, Archbishop Desmond Tutu African Leadership Fellowship, ASPEN Leadership Fellow, and a Community Service Award from Unguwar Rimi Community, Kaduna, in 1994.

A Visionary for Prosperity

As Muhammad continues his journey, his work remains pivotal in shaping the economic landscape of Nigeria and advancing the cause of sustainable development worldwide. His multifaceted career, from local governance to global policymaking, underscores the need for leaders who can bridge the gap between theory and practice, between policy and prosperity.