Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has called for more innovative and strategic public spending practices that reflect Nigeria’s current fiscal challenges. Speaking through his Deputy, Professor Kaletapwa George Farauta, he made the call during the 2025 Ministerial Performance Management Retreat organized by the Federal Ministry of Finance.
Held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Yola, the retreat was themed “Strengthening Performance Management for Fiscal Stability.” It brought together senior officials and stakeholders from the Ministry of Finance to review previous achievements, align policies, and develop strategies for stronger fiscal performance and economic resilience.
Governor Fintiri expressed appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Finance for choosing Yola as the venue, describing it as a chance for deeper engagement between national and sub-national governments. He noted that hosting the retreat not only honored the people of Adamawa but also provided an opportunity to demonstrate the state’s commitment to governance and reform.
He stressed the value of performance retreats, describing them as a hallmark of serious governance. According to him, such forums are essential for reflection, performance review, and the design of forward-looking strategies that can drive institutional effectiveness and national progress.
The Governor, however, raised concerns about Nigeria’s economic trajectory, citing bleak macroeconomic indicators and mounting developmental pressures. He warned of a growing disconnect between rising expenditure demands and dwindling revenue inflows, urging the Ministry of Finance to lead bold reforms to stabilize and strengthen the economy.
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, echoed these concerns and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and results-oriented public service. He emphasized the need for innovation, improved institutional capacity, and better fiscal discipline to achieve long-term economic stability.
Also speaking at the retreat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Lydia Shehu Jafiya, mni, described the theme as timely and relevant. She highlighted the increasing pressure on government resources and the urgency of driving efficiency in public service. She further emphasized that performance management is critical not only for institutional success but also for personal development within the civil service.
