Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, is using his strategic mindset and commitment to innovation to drive meaningful change in Africa through the establishment of eco-friendly technology hubs and his focus on enhancing engineering, renewable energy, and biotechnology in the continent.
Halilu’s objective is clear: to champion African-led innovations that address the continent’s specific challenges while upholding international standards. His philosophy, encapsulated in the belief that “African issues demand African solutions,” underscores his commitment to harnessing the abundant talent, expertise, and creativity of the continent to drive meaningful change.
Halilu’s impact is not just theoretical; it is tangible and far-reaching. Over the past decade, he has translated his vision into action through key roles in various organizations, where his leadership has driven significant growth and innovation. At Gongoni Company Ltd., a leading Nigerian manufacturing firm, Halilu played a pivotal role in its success.
However, details of his tenure remain undisclosed. His strategic insights at Nuli Foods Company were instrumental in promoting healthier eating habits among Nigerians. Similarly, at Dantata Foods Ltd., Halilu’s business acumen led to operational improvements and strategic advancements, demonstrating his versatility across industries, from manufacturing to healthcare.
In 2019, Halilu’s commitment to fostering innovation took a groundbreaking turn with the establishment of The CANs Technology Hub, West Africa’s first eco-friendly facility of its kind. This initiative not only addressed the leadership and innovation gap among Nigerian youth but also reinforced Halilu’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of African thinkers and doers.
Halilu’s strategic vision for NASENI is outlined in the agency’s new Strategic Launchpad, which prioritizes key areas such as Engineering and Manufacturing, Renewable Energy and Sustainability, and Health and Biotechnology. A cornerstone of his strategy is enhancing NASENI’s light manufacturing capabilities, focusing on converting prototypes into scalable small-scale production. This approach not only ensures high-quality outputs but also their widespread application across the continent. Halilu is committed to transforming NASENI into a model of public sector excellence, setting a standard for others to follow.
