25th October, 2023
By Philip Yatai
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike on Tuesday appointed Mr Michael Chinda and Dr Barivure Kpakol as his Senior Special Assistants.
While Chinda was appointed Special Assistant on Land, Urban, Regional Planning and Environment, Kpakol was appointed Senior Special Assistant on Waste Management.
The two new appointments were announced in a statement issued by Anhony Ogunleye, Director of Press, Office of the Minister.
According to the statement Chinda, who was born on Sept. 17, 1960, in Rivers, has a distinguished academic background and a wealth of professional experience.
He said that the appointee has a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Port Harcourt obtained in 2004 and a bachelor’s degree in technology from the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, 1987.
He added that Chinda’s career was marked by a series of notable appointments and responsibilities, reflecting his commitment to public service.
“He was a Senior Lands Officer at the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, where he served diligently from 1989 to 2004.
“His expertise in land administration and urban planning was honed during his tenure.
“He was Secretary, Obio Akpor Local Government Council, 2008 to 2010, where he demonstrated strong administrative and leadership skills in local governance.
“A distinguished legislator at the Rivers State House of Assembly, from 2011 to 2023 and contributed to lawmaking, policy development, and community development,” he said.
The director of press added that Chinda equally earned the esteemed title of Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers.
This, according to him, is a prestigious recognition of his contributions to the real estate and land management sector.
“Land and urban planning are critical components of the development of any city, and with his extensive experience and academic background, Chinda is well-equipped to address the complexities and challenges associated with these areas,” he stated.
Wike appoints Kpakol as special aide on environment, waste mgt
On Kpakol, Ogunleye said he has extensive experience and qualifications that will make him a valuable addition to the FCT Administration’s dedicated team.
He added that Kpakol, born on May 26, 1961, in Rivers, was a highly accomplished individual with a remarkable academic background.
“He holds a doctorate degree in banking and finance from Rivers State University of Science and Technology, as well as a master’s degree in business administration from the Federal University of Technology Owerri.
“He also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in accountancy from Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt.
“Kpakol’s distinguished career has seen him take on numerous roles of high responsibility, demonstrating his capability and dedication to public service,” he said.
Ogunleye identified some of the notable positions held by Kpakol as Commissioner for Agriculture, from 2019 to 2023; and Commissioner of Finance, Rivers between 2015 and 2019.
He added that Kpakol was also the Vice Chairman of the People Democratic Party, South East Senatorial Zone, Rivers from 2013 to 2015.
“He was also the Executive Chairman, Gokana Local Government Council of Rivers where he provided leadership and governance for the local community.
“He was equally the State Secretary, Rivers Chapter of the Association of Local Government Employees between 1999 and 2002.
“Kpakol’s wealth of experience and dedication to public service align perfectly with the calibre of individuals being assembled by the FCT minister.
“His appointment as the Senior Special Assistant on Environment and Waste Management is a testament to the FCTA’s commitment to addressing environmental issues and waste management challenges in FCT,” he said via the statement.
He added that Kpakol has a unique opportunity to contribute to the sustainable development and improvement of the environment in the FCT.
“His background in finance, governance, and agriculture positioned him well to address the complex issues related to waste management and environmental conservation,” he added.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike announces appointment Mr Michael Chinda and Dr Barivure Kpakol as his Senior Special Assistants.
(NAN)