President Goodluck Jonathan has appointed Mr. Chika Mordi, as the first Chief Executive of the National Competitiveness Council of Nigeria (NCCN). Other members of the premier NCCN board include Michael Porter, Aliko Dangote, Lynda Chalker and Juan Pardinas.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Olusegun Aganga said in a statement, “We are pleased to have Mordi at the helm of the council’s affairs. His track record demonstrates that he possesses the intellect, ambition and experience to help Nigeria attain global economic prominence.”

Mordi, an ex-banker will lead a strategically placed body, part of the Jonathan administration’s wider policy to dramatically improve the ability of local and international businesses to conduct and operate in Nigeria.

Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr. Tony Elumelu, whose foundation provided a take-off grant for the council, said, “Competitiveness is a prerequisite for a country’s development. The NCCN is working to create an enabling environment for the private sector to flourish. This is the only sustainable solution for Nigeria’s and Africa’s development.

“Mordi brings a skill set and track record that makes me feel highly confident that our objectives will be realised.”

Reacting to the appointment, Mordi said, “I am honoured to have the opportunity to contribute in a significant way to Nigeria’s development and its global business profile. The private sector is instrumental in creating sustainable growth, reducing poverty and boosting collective prosperity for Nigerians. The NCCN is intrinsic to ensuring the right conditions are in place to secure Nigeria’s strong future; I am looking forward to the challenge.”