How educational research council fares under Lawani

Dr. Margaret Taiwo Lawani, a native of Ondo town, assumed the role of Acting Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC), The Think Tank of Nigerian Education, three months ago. Drawing on her extensive experience in educational research and development, collaborative spirit, and academic background, the outgoing acting ES has set a course to redefine the agency. OLUDARE RICHARDS provides an in-depth report on her leadership and its impact.

While the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC) has often operated quietly under the Federal Ministry of Education, its significance in the educational sector has never been in doubt. As a key player in educational research and curriculum development, NERDC’s activities have long been of great interest to various stakeholders. Consequently, the question of its leadership is always met with keen scrutiny.

Following the unexpected death of Professor Ismail Junaidu, the former Executive Secretary, in July 2024, the Council faced a leadership vacuum that left many in the sector uneasy. However, the appointment of Dr. Margaret Taiwo Lawani, then a respected Director within the agency, swiftly addressed the situation.

Dr. Lawani’s appointment was a natural progression given her impressive qualifications and long-standing contributions to the Council. As an accomplished academic and researcher, she had already made significant strides within NERDC and beyond. Her previous roles, including Director of the Curriculum Development Centre, the Language Development Centre, and the Special Programmes Centre, saw her implementing key initiatives in curriculum design, language development, and special education programs. These roles allowed her to develop a deep understanding of NERDC’s operations and its strategic direction, equipping her with the insight necessary to lead the organisation effectively.

Under her leadership, NERDC has experienced a remarkable turnaround. Her immediate focus on improving staff welfare has played a pivotal role in boosting morale and productivity. By fostering an inclusive, transparent, and supportive environment, Lawani not only improved staff welfare but also reinvigorated the workforce, leading to greater organisational effectiveness. Her leadership approach has resulted in a more motivated staff, better equipped to contribute to the Council’s mission.

Perhaps the most significant achievement under Dr. Lawani’s tenure has been the revitalisation of NERDC’s academic centres. Her efforts to restore these centres to their operational significance have been nothing short of transformative. This revitalisation aligns closely with the national agenda for educational reform, such as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Under Dr. Lawani’s guidance, the Council has regained its stature as a driving force in Nigeria’s educational development, inspiring staff members to return to their roles with renewed dedication.

Her exceptional contributions to education have been widely recognised. In 2012, she received the Best NERDC Academic Staff Award, a testament to her outstanding work in curriculum development and educational research. Her approach to leadership blends her deep academic expertise with a clear vision for NERDC’s future.

Dr. Lawani is committed to aligning the organisation’s activities with national educational priorities, focusing particularly on research and development.
It is believed by many stakeholders within and outside the council that Dr. Lawani’s leadership has “restored hope” to the staff of the Council. To them, her inclusive leadership has broken down long-standing barriers, creating a more unified and collaborative work environment.

Dr. Lawani’s exemplary leadership and commitment to educational development have earned her the trust and admiration of both NERDC staff and key stakeholders. Her focus on staff welfare, visionary leadership, and passion for educational reform are exactly what Nigeria needs to sustain the growth and success of NERDC. Her tenure has already demonstrated her capacity to drive meaningful change and fulfill the Council’s mandate. With her proven leadership, Dr. Lawani represents a beacon of hope for the future of educational reform in Nigeria.