*VP tasks participants to ``unlock mystery of failed or poorly
implemented policies and projects``*
``So, your task is already well cut out for you. Perhaps Course 43 will be
able to unlock the mystery of failed or poorly implemented policies and
projects, but more importantly, promote a practical, nitty-gritty guide to
implementing projects and policies. This is a body of knowledge that is
desperately needed today.``

Those were the words of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, earlier
today while inaugurating the Senior Executive Course 43 of the National
Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS).
Speaking on the theme of the Course 43 programme titled “Getting
Things Done: Strategies for the Implementation of Policies and
Programmes in Nigeria”, the Vice President noted that “this year’s theme
goes to the heart of what is generally considered the bane of
development in Nigeria, poor implementation.“

According to him, “the proverbial gap between intention and results;
between policy and stated outcomes; delivering on campaign promises or
even just doing what the well-articulated policy papers say. For many
serious-minded policymakers, the frustration is the same, yes we know
all about think-tanks what we need now are do-tanks.“
While commending the commitment and contributions of NIPSS to
critical national issues through policy briefs, policy advice and other
strategic interventions, Prof. Osinbajo assured staff, participants and
management of the Federal Government’s continued support to the
institution especially in the upgrade of facilities but tasked the NIPSS
management to be innovative in addressing its problems.

``While Government will continue to do its best to support the National
Institute, I should stress that budgetary provisions alone will always be
limited given competing needs and responsibilities of government. It is
therefore imperative for NIPSS to be even more pro-active and creative
in seeking alternative sources of funding,`` the Vice President added.
Commiserating with the management and staff of NIPSS on the demise
of its Director-General, the late Prof. Habu Galadima, the Vice President
recalled the late DG’s hard work and dedication particularly to the growth
of the institute, describing the late DG as a ``passionate advocate for
the transformation of the Institute``.

As in the previous programmes, participants of Senior Executive Course
43 are drawn from the private sector, the public service, including
paramilitary organizations and the armed forces.
Present at the event were Plateau State Governor, Mr Simon Bako,
representatives of the Service Chiefs, among others.

Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Publicity
Office of the Vice President