We now need ‘do tanks’ more than ‘think tanks’, Osinbajo tells NIPSS participants

*Asks them to unravel mystery of failed policies

VICE-PRESIDENT  Yemi Osinbajo has tasked the participants of Senior Executive Course 43 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru to devise means of unraveling the mystery behind failed or poorly implemented policies and projects.

Osinbajo said this while inaugurating the course.

According to a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Laolu Akande, the Vice-President  added that the body of knowedge desperately needed by the country is one that will promote “nitty-gritty guide to implementing projects and policies”

The statement was titled “Osinbajo to NIPSS: We know all about think-tanks, what we need now are do-tanks.”

According to the statement, the theme of the course programme is “Getting things done: Strategies for the implementation of policies and programmes in Nigeria.”

Akande quoted the Vice-President as saying that the theme goes to the heart of poor implementation which is generally considered the bane of development in Nigeria.

“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,” Osinbajo was reported to have said.

While commending the commitment and contributions of NIPSS to critical national issues through policy briefs, policy advice and other strategic interventions, Osinbajo assured members of staff of the institute, participants and management of the Federal Government’s continued support, especially in the upgrade of facilities.

He however urged the institute’s 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.

Present at the event were Plateau State Governor, Mr Simon Lalong, representatives of the Service Chiefs.