The Emir of Lapai, His Royal Highness Alhaji Umar Bago Tafida III, has commended the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) for its significant contributions to human capital development, education, and technological advancement in Nigeria.
The royal father made the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), Professor Shuaibu Shehu Aliyu, at the Fund's headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, June 3, 2026.
Welcoming the Emir and his delegation, Professor Aliyu expressed appreciation for the visit and reiterated PTDF's commitment to initiatives aimed at fostering human capital development and driving national progress.
Speaking on behalf of the Lapai Emirate Council and the people of Lapai, the Emir congratulated Professor Aliyu on his appointment as the Executive Secretary of PTDF, describing the appointment as a reflection of his exemplary leadership qualities, professional excellence, and extensive experience.
According to the Emir, Professor Aliyu's emergence at the helm of the Fund is expected to further strengthen PTDF's mandate of building indigenous capacity, promoting innovation, and advancing technology development within Nigeria's oil and gas sector.
"Your appointment is a clear testament to your outstanding track record, dedication, and the wealth of experience you bring to the table. We are confident that under your visionary leadership, PTDF will reach new heights in fulfilling its mandate to build capacity, drive innovation, and domesticate technology within the Nigerian oil and gas sector," the Emir stated.
The monarch further praised PTDF's longstanding role in supporting educational development and technological growth across the country, noting that the Lapai Emirate Council remains committed to promoting initiatives that empower young people and strengthen human capital development.
In his response, Professor Aliyu thanked the Emir and members of the Lapai Emirate Council for the visit and goodwill, assuring them of PTDF's continued dedication to developing local expertise and supporting programmes that contribute to Nigeria's socio-economic growth.
The visit concluded with the presentation of a commemorative gift by the Lapai Emirate Council to the PTDF Executive Secretary, symbolizing the cordial relationship and mutual respect between the Lapai Emirate and the Petroleum Technology Development Fund.Category: Governance | Education | Human Capital Development | Royal Affairs