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Kenyatta, Others Present As Buhari Chairs Last Ministerial Performance Review
President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday chaired the third ministerial performance review retreat for ministers, permanent secretaries, and top government functionaries.
Among dignitaries present at the State House Banquet Hall, venue of the event include the former President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta; British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing; President of the Senate, Ahmed Lawan as well as Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.
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.
The President declared that the goal to increase electricity generation to 25,000 megawatts in six years is on course (through the partnership between the Federal Government of Nigeria and German Siemens) as the first batch of the transformers has arrived Nigeria already.
He stated that his administration remained unwavering in the fight against corruption and will continue to review and prosecute high-profile corruption cases and ensure speedy completion.
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For this purpose, platforms to promote collaboration among anti-corruption and prosecuting agencies of government have been established, particularly to ensure government at all levels is effective, efficient, accountable and transparent.
Buhari also said the agricultural sector has experienced significant growth and shortfall in food production and food importation bills have both reduced significantly.
He further disclosed that the government is working assiduously to solve the problem of rising cost of food that is related to inflation.
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.