By Milcah Tanimu
In a surprising move, President Bola Tinubu has appointed Khalil Suleiman Halilu as the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) at the age of 32. Here are eight key facts to know about him: 1. *Youthful Appointment:* At just 32 years old, Khalil Suleiman Halilu takes on the crucial role of leading NASENI. 2. *Birthplace and Family:* He was born in Kano State, Nigeria, on October 29, 1990, and is the eldest of five children. 3. *Educational Background:* Halilu’s educational journey includes St. Thomas Catholic School and Rainbow Primary School in Kano for his secondary education. He completed his studies at Prime College in Kano and pursued higher education at the University of Hertfordshire, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 2009 and a Master of Science in International Business in 2010. 4. *Career Path:* His career began as an administrative assistant at Archimode & Associates after university. Later, he transitioned to the role of Marketing Manager at Gongoni Company Limited, a family business linked to Scirrocco International Limited, specializing in tea and cold beverage production. 5. *Interest in Technology:* Halilu has consistently shown a keen interest in leveraging technology and information systems to enhance business success. 6. *Non-profit Organization:* In 2018, he founded the Centre for Civic, Welfare, and Community Development (CWCD Africa), a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing societal issues such as healthcare, education, environmental concerns, and global warming. The organization also focuses on the welfare of refugees, migrants, internally displaced persons, sustainability, and inclusive development. 7. *Zabe Mobile App:* Under Halilu’s leadership, CWCD Africa introduced the Zabe mobile app, which played a significant role in the 2019 general elections in Nigeria. The Zabe App aims to decentralize electoral transparency and enhance democratic participation by serving as an election monitoring software, providing real-time information to ensure fair and reliable electoral procedures. 8. *Hobbies:* Beyond his professional and civic engagements, Halilu has diverse interests, with golf and polo ranking among his favorite pastimes. He holds membership in esteemed clubs, including the Abuja Polo Club, Nigerian Polo Association, Lagos Polo Club, and Kano Golf Club. Khalil Suleiman Halilu’s appointment to lead NASENI reflects a blend of business acumen and a commitment to addressing pressing societal challenges through technology and innovation.