7 things to know about new CAC Chairman, Ibrahim Ida

Ibrahim M. Ida is a veteran Nigerian public servant, banker, and politician whose recent appointment as Chairman of the Corporate Affairs Commission by Bola Ahmed Tinubu has brought him back into national focus.

With decades of experience across government, finance, and administration, Ida remains a respected figure in Nigeria’s public sector.

1. Birth

He was born on January 15, 1949, in Katsina State, where he also began his early life before rising to national prominence.

2. Academic background

Ida has a strong academic foundation. He obtained an Associate of the Institute of Bankers qualification in London in 1977, a Master’s degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Ibadan in 1983, and later earned a law degree (LLB) and was called to the Bar (BL) at the University of Abuja in 2003.

3. Career in the civil servicel

Before venturing into politics, he built a distinguished career in the federal civil service, serving as Permanent Secretary in key ministries such as National Planning and Defence, as well as Permanent Secretary for Economic Affairs at the Presidency.

4. Role in national financial institutions

He served as Director-General of the National Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission and contributed to major national initiatives, including the establishment of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF).

5. Political career in the Senate

Ida represented Katsina Central Senatorial District from 2007 to 2011, where he was a member of several important committees, including Rules and Business, Finance, Defence and Army, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

6. Leadership in boards and agencies

Over the years, he has served on the boards of major institutions such as the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), and the National Maritime Authority, now known as the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

7. Traditional titles and recognition

In addition to his professional achievements, Ida is a respected traditional leader, holding titles such as Wazirin Katsina and Sardaunan Katsina, and serving as a member of the Katsina Emirate Council.