Bagudu Congratulates Gumel on Appointment to Head Botswana’s Sovereign Wealth Fund
By Patience Ikpeme
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, has congratulated Mr. Farouk Gumel, the Vice Chairman of Africa for Tropical General Investment (TGI) Group, on his appointment as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Botswana Sovereign Wealth Fund Limited.
Gumel, who is the immediate past Chairman of the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), was appointed by President Duma Gideon Boko to oversee the multi-billion-dollar fund, which aims to diversify the Botswana economy and ensure lasting prosperity.
In a statement on Monday, Bagudu, who received Gumel in his office last week, said the appointment is a testament to the business leader’s vast experience and accomplishments. “This appointment, no doubt, recognises your deep intellect and extensive experience in business leadership and wealth creation, which I have personally witnessed,” the Minister said.
He also acknowledged Gumel’s invaluable contributions to agricultural modernization and expansion in Kebbi State through his WACOT group. “Your expertise was instrumental in helping us achieve our rice revolution, which improved lives and created jobs and wealth for thousands of our people when I was governor of Kebbi State,” Bagudu stated.
The Minister expressed confidence that Gumel will make Nigeria proud by helping Botswana develop its sovereign wealth fund into one of the largest in the world. He added, “I commend you, knowing that you will bring your usual dedication and visionary guidance to the task of helping Botswana manage and grow its wealth for the benefit of future generations of its people.”
Bagudu also extended congratulations to President Bola Tinubu for his leadership in economic diplomacy, which he believes is positively projecting Nigeria as a nation with immense opportunities and talent capable of competing on the global stage.
