Workers at the Institute of leather Science Technology (NILEST) Zaria are kicking against calls for the institute’s director general Mohammed Yakubu.

They say Mr Yakubu, a professor of textile science and technology, has brought “massive development” to NILEST since his appointment in 2021.

Significant among his achievements the workers say was launching an advocacy to stop consumption of animal skin (ponmo), to boost hide and skin production.

Ponmo is a popular non-nutritive meat substitute among Nigerians especially those who are unable to afford proteins in their meals.

On Thursday at a news conference in Kaduna, the workers, under the aegis of Joint Action Committee (JAC) condemned the petitions of the Oodua Youth Parliament and Coalition of Arewa Civil Society calling for the removal of the D-G over alleged poor performance.

The JAC comprised the institute’s Academic Staff Union and Senior Staff Association.

Joseph Okoh, who spoke on behalf of the workers said the claims of poor performance levelled against the D-G were baseless and a sponsored attack.

He added that the calls depicted the ignorance of the groups on the massive development the institute has witnessed under the leadership of the D-G.

“It is obvious the calls were a sponsored agenda to undermine the progress and new reforms agenda of Prof. Yakubu, who has been working tirelessly to boost the image of the institute and transform it to a world class institution.” He said.

He enjoined every Nigerian to visit the institute to get first hand knowledge of the transformation brought about by the D-G.

Mr Okoh explained that within the two years of Mr Yakubu administration, he was able to introduce new research and training in leather science technology.

“The campaign is a common attitude of some Nigerians who cynically challenge the progress of public institutions regardless of its importance to national development.

“The Federal Government has acknowledged the performance of the institute under Prof. Yakubu, therefore those sponsoring this campaign are advised to stop,” he said.

The workers appealed to the federal government to provide adequate funding to enhance activities of the institute. 

(NAN)