The Ministry of Interior commenced a two-day Performance Contracting Retreat on Monday, October 28, 2024, in Abuja aimed at aligning the Ministry’s agencies to meet critical national security objectives in line with the Presidential priority on security.
The high-level gathering was led by the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, along with the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Directors of the Ministry and Heads of its Agencies.
In his opening address, Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasised the Ministry’s mission to fulfil the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by the President, which places a strong emphasis on internal security as the bedrock of national stability and growth.
“Our work is foundational to the future of Nigeria. Without security, we cannot discuss investment, tourism, industrialisation, or employment. This Ministry is a core pillar of national progress, and today’s gathering is about setting ambitious targets, holding ourselves accountable, and ensuring our collective efforts truly benefit Nigerians,” the Minister explained.
He highlighted the critical responsibilities each agency within the Ministry holds. From the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), which is tasked with transforming correctional facilities into centres of rehabilitation and hope, to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), which must ensure rigorous border control and accountability for all foreign entrants, each agency plays an essential role in securing the nation’s future.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo further urged agency heads to implement transformative strategies within their respective fields.
“Your efforts, no matter how small, are essential to building the ocean of security that Nigeria requires. This retreat is about reinforcing our shared mission and ensuring that every action contributes to a safer, more resilient Nigeria,” he said.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Ajani reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to fostering inter-agency collaboration and accountability. She highlighted the theme of the retreat, “United Front for a Secure Nation and Future,” as a clarion call to unify efforts across all agencies under the Ministry to deliver on the Presidential agenda.
“Today’s retreat transcends formalities,” said Dr. Ajani. “It’s a defining moment for our Ministry as we commit ourselves to set measurable targets that reflect our impact on the nation’s security and well-being. We are signing more than just contracts; we are making a covenant of accountability with the Nigerian people.”
Each agency under the Ministry of Interior, is tasked with establishing key performance indicators that will drive their contributions to the Ministry’s overarching goals.