The Federal Ministry of Finance today hosted a Human Resource Award and Recognition Ceremony to celebrate the outstanding achievements of its staff.

The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Lydia Shehu Jafiya commended the staff for their hard work and dedication, stating that the Rewards and Recognition System (RRS) is a key driver of morale, motivation, and productivity in the public service. 

She assured that all efforts will be made to ensure the Ministry remains Nigeria’s number one Service Delivery Ministry through proper management of the nation’s finances in an open, transparent, accountable and efficient manner that delivers on the country’s development priorities 

*It is our commitment to creating a highly professional and competent workforce that will drive economic growth and development in Nigeria,* Mrs. Jafiya said. 

She acknowledged the sterling leadership of the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and the Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite in ensuring the successful realization of the policy objectives of government 

 The Permanent Secretary also appreciated the collaborative efforts of her colleague, Permanent Secretary Special Duties, Mr. Raymond Omenka Omachi, and the Senior Management and entire Staff of the Ministry.

Mrs. Jafiya expressed gratitude to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, for her vision and leadership in promoting a highly professional and competent workforce.

The Director of Human Resource Management, Mrs. Aderonke Abimbola Jaiyesimi highlighted the significance of the ceremony, stating, 

*Today, we come together to celebrate the excellence, commitment, discipline, and professionalism that our esteemed colleagues have consistently demonstrated. The reward for hard work is more work—an opportunity to lead by example and continue raising the bar.*

In response to the awards, Mrs. Loveline Nzonwanne, speaking on behalf of the awardees, expressed gratitude to God for the awards. She thanked the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun; the Honourable Minister of State for Finance Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite; 

the Permanent Secretary Finance Mrs Lydia Shehu Jafiya; the Permanent Secretary Special Duties Mr Raymond Omenka Omachi 

and the entire Management Staff for the honour, stating, *We are truly humbled to receive these awards. It is a recognition of our hard work and dedication to duty. We would like to thank the Management and Staff of the Ministry of Finance for their support and encouragement. We also wish to assure you of our total loyalty and commitment to our responsibilities*

The ceremony recognised staff who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, dedication, innovation, and excellence in their work place in various categories, including Best Dressed Staff, Most Punctual Staff, and Staff of the Month 

As the Federal Ministry of Finance continues to drive economic growth and development, the Human Resource Award and Recognition Ceremony serves as a beacon of excellence, inspiring staff to strive for greatness. With a renewed commitment to professionalism and dedication, the Ministry is poised to achieve even greater heights, cementing its position as a leader in public service delivery.

Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite has called on global investors to tap into Nigeria’s vast opportunities, highlighting the country’s economic pivot and potential for sustainable growth. 

This appeal was made during her address at the Milken Institute Global Conference 2025, New York, USA 

She stated that Nigeria is deepening intra-African trade and investment through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), unlocking value across the continent. The AfCFTA’s phased implementation, Uzoka-Anite said, will reduce tariffs on 90% of goods traded within Africa, promoting intra-African trade and regional value chain development. 

This strategic move positions Nigeria for high-potential investment opportunities in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, digital economy, manufacturing, infrastructure, mining, and healthcare.

The Minister explained that Nigeria’s startup ecosystem is dynamic, with opportunities for investment in fintech, agritech, edtech, logistics, and health. *The government is committed to supporting startups through regulatory reforms, catalytic funding, and talent development,* she noted.

Dr. Uzoka-Anite emphasized that *Nigeria is actively pivoting by deepening intra-African trade and investment, particularly through mechanisms like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).* She noted further,  *We’re not simply seeking aid or short-term capital, but strategic collaborations that recognize the continent’s potential as the next frontier for sustainable growth and innovation.*

To achieve its economic objectives, Nigeria is streamlining the investment climate, improving infrastructure, and enhancing trade efficiency. The government is also implementing initiatives to support the startup ecosystem, including regulatory reforms and catalytic funding.

The Minister’s address to the global community underscores Nigeria’s commitment to becoming a hub for sustainable growth and innovation in Africa, presenting a compelling case for global investors to explore opportunities in the country.

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with traditional institutions and other relevant stakeholders to drive economic growth and social cohesion in the country.

The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, gave the assurance today during a courtesy visit to the Lamido of Adamawa, His Royal Highness Dr Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha, Chairman of the Adamawa State Council of Traditional Rulers.

The Minister, who led the Top Management Staff of the Ministry on the courtesy call as part of activities lined up for the 2025 Performance Management Retreat, emphasised the importance of collaborative relationships between the Ministry and traditional institutions.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Finance, Mrs Lydia Shehu Jafiya, the Minister highlighted the government’s determination to stabilise the nation’s economy and improve the lives of citizens, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

HM Edun outlined various efforts undertaken by the government to reposition the economy, including investing in infrastructure development; creating an enabling environment to attract domestic and foreign investment; implementing fiscal reforms to improve revenue generation and promote sustainable economic growth; supporting farmers and promoting agricultural productivity; as well as investing in education, healthcare, and skills development.

He expressed optimism that these initiatives would yield positive results and improve the lives of Nigerians.

He also thanked the Adamawa State Government and the good people of the State for agreeing to host the retreat.

The Lamido appreciated the Ministry’s initiative and pledged his support for the government’s economic growth and development efforts in Adamawa State.

This visit marked the conclusion of the 2025 Senior Management Staff Retreat and represents a significant step towards fostering collaborative relationships between the Federal Ministry of Finance and traditional institutions—driving economic growth and promoting social cohesion.

As the Ministry continues to leverage these partnerships, it remains committed to working together towards a brighter future for Nigeria