NANS Writes Tinubu, Demands Probe Of Alleged Mismanagement Of Cement Institute Fund
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on President Bola Tinubu to order investigation into the alleged mismanagement of the Cement Technology Institute of Nigeria’s fund.
Speaking at press briefing in Lagos, NANS Senate President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde, claimed 20billion Naira (about $100 million as at then) contributed as levies on imported cement to CTIN for technical training purposes when Nigeria was still importing cement.
Interestingly, African richest man and president of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote has occupied the position of chairman of the institute from inception till now.
The students urged President Tinubu to direct the immediate engagement of an external independent forensic auditor to audit the CTIN funds.
Making their demands known in a communication titled “OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU GCFR” and dated February 22, 2024, the students maintained:
“In clear terms, We urge Mr President to issue a directive to Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to make public as a matter of urgency and national importance her role so far, the status, management, and usage of the over 20billion Naira (about $100 million as at then) contributed as levies on imported cement to CTIN for technical training purposes since over 10 years ago when Nigeria was still importing cement.
“We know and we are fully aware nothing has been done with the fund in line with its purpose. This is money that should have gone to government coffers for investment in our vocational and technical education system.
“Alh Aliko Dangote has been sole chairman since this institution was created by the Federal Ministry of Trade in conjunction with cement importers – hence why we are also demanding an explanation directly from Alh Aliko Dangote as to where is the said fund.
“Your Excellency, to avert degeneration of this matter, where all Dangote industries will be occupied by Nigerian students nationwide, kindly advice Alh Aliko Dangote to immediately engage an external independent forensic auditor to audit the CTIN funds, and we also demand that anyone found guilty be held accountable for their actions.
“We further demand swift action towards restructuring the leadership and governance of CTIN, nothing like life chairman, it should be democratic to prevent such overstay that is bringing severe mismanagement of what should be the People’s commonwealth from happening in the future.
“We demand from Chairman CTIN Aliko Dangote , an explanation on his level of involvement as to what looks to the public as a mismanagement and misappropriation of the CTIN funds.
“The Nigerian youth will no longer remain silent as our potential is suppressed and our futures are jeopardized by anyone.
“This is not a plea for answers; this is a demand for accountability, transparency, justice and a rallying cry for all those who believe in Nigeria’s potential and the rights of its youth to education, opportunity, and a fair shot at success.”
