Percy Onyeka
Vice President Kashim Shettima, on Friday said that the Presidential Initiative for Innovation, Policy Evaluation, and Research (PIIPER) would foster transparency, effective governance and sustainable development.
Shettima stated this during a meeting with a delegation from the Firoz Lalji Centre for Africa from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and a pre-launch meeting of the PIIPER, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
While giving an insight into the initiative, Shettima said it was targeted at transforming policymaking in Nigeria through a multifaceted approach.
He outlined the approaches to include encompassing data gathering, rigorous research, innovation integration, stakeholder engagement and thorough documentation of government functions and decisions.
“PIIPER will further extend its reach by coordinating national policy research and innovation fellowships, fostering regular dialogues, and engaging in comparative analyses to benchmark Nigerian policies globally.
“This initiative is geared towards addressing Nigeria’s development challenges, promoting transparency, and collaboration to ensure effective governance and sustainable development.”
Shettima sought collaboration between PIIPER and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and its delegation from Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa, describing the initiative as a transformative journey.
He applauded Prof. David Luke and Prof. Tim Allen for their dedication to unravelling the intricacies of the political economy of Africa through their impactful contributions at the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa”.
Prof. Luke was singled out by Shettima, who described his study, “How Africa Trades,” as an exciting chapter and stated it represents a courageous move towards common aims.
“I was excited to meet you even more after learning about the mission and depth of thought this important endeavor possesses.
“Having you here today highlights our common goal of ensuring that Africa is not marginalized in our conversation about development.
We cannot afford to break the connection between gown and town because the consequences would be disastrous.
As stated in its motto, “Thank goodness, your organization comprehends the relationship between politics and economics and, of course, knows the causes of things.”
“For this reason, I am thrilled to discover that there is more to the relationship between LSE and Africa than just a theoretical framework.”
Earlier, Senior Special Assistant to the President on International Cooperation and delegation leader Dapo Oyewole stated that one of his responsibilities is to showcase Nigeria’s best qualities to the world and draw the best talent to Nigeria.
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