Be ‘offensive’, trumpet our performance, Buhari charges ministers

President Muhammadu Buhari has charged his cabinet members to be ‘offensive’ in spreading the successes of his administration and not allow ‘politically motivated’ statements drown his government’s message of successful performance.

Mr Buhari said his administration, which aimed at lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty, has done well in the last one year.

His assertions come amidst rising unemployment and recent protests by Nigerians over the recent hikes in electricity tariff and pump price of fuel.

The president made his stance known on Tuesday, in his address at the retreat for ministers, permanent secretaries and other top government officials working with him.

The event held at the State House Conference Centre, Presidential Villa, Abuja on Monday and Tuesday.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, at the first day of the retreat, on Monday, said the first year of Mr Buhari’s second term in office “has been the most productive of this government.”

Speaking on Tuesday, Mr Buhari said the scorecard of the cabinet members shows that “progress has been made on all fronts, in spite of the multiple challenges”.

“Let me reassure all Nigerians that this administration remains resolute in initiating programmes aimed at improving the quality of lives and uplifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty over the next ten years.”

He also said his administration’s policies include the protection of lives and properties and ensuring equitable distribution of the nation’s wealth.