The Federal Government has promised to regularly support the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, to ensure quality policy formulation.
Vice President Kashim Shettima made the promise at the graduation of the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 47 on Saturday in Jos.
Shettima, who acknowledged the critical role played by NIPSS in shaping the policy drive of Nigeria, pledged government’s continuous support for the institute to thrive.
He particularly said that aside funding, the government would support the institute in the area of infrastructure and manpower development.
“NIPSS plays a critical role in shaping our national policies and we cannot afford to let it down.
“It occupies a unique part in our nation building; it is truly a national asset.
“It is contributing meaningfully to policy formulation, especially on security, economy, among others.
“This administration values ideas and supports organisations with ideas; we will support this revered institute beyond funding and infrastructure to keep it on track,” he said.
The vice president, who commended the graduands for exhibiting high intellectual prowess, congratulated them for painstakingly taking the ten-months course in the interest of Nigeria.
He said that the theme of SEC 47 research, “Blue Economy and Sustainable Development in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Opportunities” reflects the essence and policy drive of the current administration.
He added that the reports of their study, if properly implemented, would be the game changer for the federal government.
Shettima advised them to put to use the knowledge, expertise and spirit of oneness shared among them at the institute into their various organisations.
He particularly advised them to preach peace, unity and togetherness as they return to their various organisations, insisting that what binds Nigerians together is greater than the divisive tendencies.
The vice president also commended Gov. Caleb Mutfwang for exhibiting courage and leadership toward ensuring that Plateau remained peaceful.
He, however, called on the residents of the state to pray and support the governor to succeed.
Speaking, Mutfwang, promised to continually liaise with NIPSS to initiate policies and programmes that would lead to the growth and development of Plateau.
The governor, who said that the security situation in the state had improved, thanked the federal government for supporting his administration to stem the tides of insecurity in Plateau.
Earlier, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, Director General of NIPSS, advised the 96 graduates to be good ambassadors of the institute.
The director general also urged the graduates to demonstrate knowledge gained in their ten-months study in NIPSS into their various places of endeavours.
