Ministry of Foreign Affairs Launches Performance Management System to Enhance Service Delivery
Maryam Aminu
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs marked a milestone today with the official launch and sensitization of the Performance Management System (PMS), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving efficiency, accountability, and professionalism within the civil service.
The event, held at the Ministry’s headquarters, was attended by distinguished dignitaries
In his opening remarks, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar (OON), described the PMS as a transformative tool designed to align institutional goals with national priorities.
He emphasized its role in fostering meritocracy, ensuring fairness in performance evaluations, and encouraging continuous improvement through periodic appraisals and performance improvement plans.
“This initiative is critical to strengthening our Ministry’s role as a model of progressive diplomacy while advancing Nigeria’s global standing,” Ambassador Tuggar stated.
He urged all staff members to embrace the system, which integrates employee career objectives, motivation, and development into performance plans, ensuring the Ministry remains a beacon of excellence in public service.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, also highlighted the importance of the PMS in aligning individual contributions with national development goals.
He noted that the initiative replaces the outdated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (APER) with a more scientific, data-driven approach to appraisals, promoting transparency, fairness, and efficiency.
“Performance management is a cornerstone of government reforms to ensure the civil service operates at the highest standards. By incorporating a merit-driven culture and minimizing biases in evaluations, the PMS sets a new benchmark for excellence in service delivery,” Ambassador Ahmed said.
The PMS is a key component of the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP) 2021-2025 and aligns with the National Development Plan (NDP) 2021-2025. Its objectives include fostering a results-driven culture, enhancing accountability, and creating a framework for transparent monitoring and feedback.
Ambassador Ahmed announced the institutionalization of “PMS Thursdays,” where officers and PMS champions are expected to wear branded T-shirts and caps to promote awareness and engagement.
He called on all staff to actively participate in institutionalizing the PMS, emphasizing that collaboration and commitment would drive the Ministry toward greater excellence.
The launch of the PMS marks a significant step toward modernizing Nigeria’s civil service, ensuring it remains responsive and effective in delivering on its mandate.
Both leaders commended the efforts of the champions and staff members who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to this transformative agenda.
The Minister reiterated a renewed commitment to driving the Ministry of Foreign Affairs toward unparalleled professionalism, integrity, and effectiveness in representing Nigeria on the global stage.