President Bola Tinubu, addressing his cabinet members at the commencement of the three-day 2023 Cabinet Retreat, sent a clear message, urging his ministers to diligently pursue their ministries’ mandates or face the possibility of removal.
The retreat, themed “Delivering on the Renewed Hope Agenda,” hosted Ministers, Presidential Aides, Permanent Secretaries, and top government officials.
President Tinubu emphasized that the people’s trust in the government required a dedicated commitment from each minister to serve effectively.
Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to uplift 50 million Nigerians from poverty, highlighting that poverty, while not a source of shame, was entirely unacceptable and had to be eradicated.
He encouraged ministers to concentrate on their ministries’ progress and to undertake bold initiatives.
Emphasizing his administration’s determination to harness the nation’s vast population as an asset, he introduced Results Delivery Units and initiated the signing of a Bond of Understanding between ministers, Permanent Secretaries, and himself.
President Tinubu clarified the performance criteria, stating that those who meet the objectives should have no concerns, while underperformance would lead to a review, and complete non-performance would result in departure.
Tinubu stressed that ministers must exhibit intellectual curiosity, asking critical questions related to their work. He introduced Hadiza Usman to head the delivery unit and offered to address complaints or facilitate collaboration.
Tinubu said that Nigeria is endowed with substantial intellectual talent and described it as the most intellectually sound country in Africa, despite challenges, such as those in the Sahel and climate change.
The President inspired the officials to exhibit pride in their nationality, assert leadership, and make democracy a lasting reference for Africa.
While advocating for decision-making courage, President Tinubu called for constructive debates and encouraged the cabinet to question decisions. He acknowledged his potential for error and expressed openness to rectifying mistakes.
In his closing remarks, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of a united approach to national development, underscoring the goals of eliminating corruption, enhancing workers’ wages, transforming the economy, and eradicating poverty.
He pledged to make healthcare accessible to all, improve education standards, and enhance infrastructure.