CALABAR —The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Cross River State, Hon. Chief Ajah Francis Ajah, mni, has achieved a historic milestone by graduating from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) as part of Senior Executive Course 46. This accomplishment makes him the first civil servant from Abi Local Government Area (LGA) and the second individual from the Abi/Yakurr Federal Constituency to complete this prestigious program.
Established in 1979, NIPSS serves as Nigeria's premier policy think-tank, focusing on research and learning to develop top-tier technocrats capable of formulating and implementing innovative policies critical for national development.
Hailing from Ebom in Abi LGA, Hon. Ajah is a seasoned banker, politician, and scholar. He holds an array of academic qualifications, including a Higher National Diploma in Accountancy, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management, a Master of Science in Accountancy, and a Master in Business Administration. Professionally, he is an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, the Certified Institute of Cost Management, and the Nigerian Institute of Management.
Throughout his career, Hon. Ajah has held various significant roles, such as Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State and, currently, Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Finance. He also imparts knowledge as a part-time lecturer at Arthur Javis University and the University of Cross River State. His involvement extends to international projects, having served as the United Nations and World Bank Sub-Component Coordinator for the State Governance and Capacity Building Project and the State and Local Governance Reforms in Calabar. Additionally, he has been a member of the State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability program and the State-Based Social Accountability and Enabling Reforms program, anchored by the World Bank, IMF, Federal Ministry of Finance, and Debt Management Office.
Hon. Ajah's early engagement in governance is evident from his time as a Councilor and Deputy Leader of the Abi Local Government Legislative Council. His recent graduation from NIPSS not only shows his commitment to personal and professional development but also sets a new benchmark for civil servants in the state.
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