By CHARLES IWUOHA

The President of the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), Ambassador EO Okafor, has hailed the appointment of Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche as the nation?s Acting Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service.

Okafor, ?on behalf of the National Executive Council, National Executive Committee and the entire AANI family?, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to recognising and promoting merit, as demonstrated through the appointment of eminently qualified, well-trained, and experienced AANI members into key strategic positions in his administration.

The group said this decision bears eloquent testimony to the President?s vision for a results-driven leadership that prioritises competence and excellence in governance.

Nwakuche, Born on November 26, 1966, in Oguta, Imo State, brings to this role over three decades of illustrious service in corrections.

This is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by Brigadier General SK Usman Rtd, National Publicity Secretary and made available to News Express.

According to the statement, ?Having joined the Nigerian Correctional Service in 1990 as an Assistant Superintendent of Corrections, his steady rise through the ranks is a testament to his exceptional dedication, leadership, and professionalism.

?His impressive academic credentials include a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Calabar, a Master of Science Degree in Political Science (International Relations) from the University of Lagos and a diploma in French Language.

?A respected member of our association, he is also pursuing a PhD in Security and Strategic Studies.

?Nwakuche?s wealth of experience is reflected in the diverse roles he has held in the course of his impeccable career, including as Technical Assistant to the Presidency on Correctional Service Matters and Deputy Controller-General overseeing Training and Staff Development.

?His impactful leadership in capacity-building has been instrumental in equipping personnel with the skills required to meet contemporary challenges in corrections management. His efforts have been duly recognised with the prestigious national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).

?As he assumes this critical position, we are confident that his appointment marks a new dawn for the Nigerian Correctional Service.

?Expectations are high for him to reposition the service, prioritise staff welfare, and embrace technology-driven solutions to make Nigeria?s correctional system a model for excellence globally.?

Continuing, the statement said: ?AANI strongly encourages the Acting Controller General to foster collaboration with sister security agencies and key stakeholders, as this synergy will assist in achieving the service?s core mandate of rehabilitation, security and justice.

?Given his stellar track record and vast experience, AANI is optimistic that Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche will perform exceedingly well in this new role, bringing transformative leadership that the Nigerian Correctional Service urgently requires.

?We assure him of AANI?s unwavering support as he undertakes this noble and onerous task of reforming and advancing the correctional service.

?AANI remains steadfast in its commitment to partnering with the government, well-meaning organisations, and individuals to enhance national development and work towards building a better society for all.

?Once again, congratulations to the Acting Controller General, Nigeria Correctional Service, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche MFR mni, on this well-deserved appointment.

?You have made us proud, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of your visionary leadership as you assume duty and this onerous responsibility.?