President Muhammadu Buhari presided over the third ministerial performance review retreat for ministers, permanent secretaries, and other top government officials on Monday.
Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, British High Commissioner to Nigeria Catriona Laing, President of the Senate Ahmed Lawan, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Femi Gbajabiamila were among the dignitaries present at the event, which was held at the State House Banquet Hall.
The first ministerial retreat was held in August 2019. This year’s retreat, the last in the series of retreats held under Buhari’s second term, is sequel to the mid term performance review held last year.
The retreat’s objectives include delivering reports on progress made particularly on the nine priority areas of the present administration. The retreat is structured into three main areas, presenting key achievements and ways to accelerate implementation of key mandates.
Laing, who attended the ministerial retreat for the second time, stated that Nigeria must remain on a path of democratic consolidation.
While acknowledging that Nigeria’s economy is more resilient, she noted that COVID-19 pandemic had impinged on progress. She underscored that the UK is fully committed to a strong and viable Nigeria.
On his part, Gbajabiamila harped on the point that Nigeria cannot thrive without tackling insecurity and corruption. He equally spoke on the critical need to measure how far and how well.
He stated that for the National Assembly, the retreat is an opportunity to take stock, adding that the outcome of the retreat will provide data to help plan ahead.