From Moshood Karim
Day three of the on-going five-day capacity-building workshop for Planning, Research, and Statistics (PRS) staff from various federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) highlighted the critical role of data in formulating and implementing effective strategic plans.
Organised by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the workshop featured expert presentations and hands-on sessions.
Dr. Adeleke Adekanmbi led the day’s first session with a lecture titled: “Data Search and Analysis for Strategic Planning.” He emphasised the centrality of accurate and relevant data in informed decision-making, explaining how data underpins identifying trends, forecasting outcomes, and setting measurable goals.
“Data ensures that policies and programmes are evidence-based, proactive in anticipating challenges, and efficient in resource allocation,” Dr. Adekanmbi said.
He detailed the types of data—quantitative, qualitative, ordinal, and cardinal—and outlined steps for data analysis, starting with data search and progressing through extraction, transformation, modelling, estimation, and finally, result publication.
Participants were introduced to tools like Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, and Excel for data visualization, learning how these platforms enhance clarity and impact in presenting insights. A practical session followed, allowing attendees to apply the concepts and tools in real-time exercises.
Dr. Adekanmbi concluded by reiterating that leveraging accurate data enables decision-makers to address challenges effectively and drive sustainable development.
The second lecture, delivered by Dr. Kenneth Kwujeli on behalf of Dr. Anna Dyaji, focused on “Structure and Content of Strategic Plan Documents.” Dr. Kwujeli outlined how strategic plans differ from national development frameworks and are tailored to the specific mandates of individual MDAs.
He urged MDAs to align their plans with national policy objectives, considering political, economic, and contextual issues. Dr. Kwujeli also emphasised the importance of implementation strategies, financing, and monitoring mechanisms to ensure the plans achieve desired outcomes.
“A well-formulated strategic plan enables MDAs to address challenges and deliver on their mandates effectively,” he said.
The day’s sessions underscored the importance of equipping PRS staff with the tools and knowledge needed to formulate robust, actionable strategic plans. Participants expressed appreciation for the practical focus and interactive nature of the workshop, which continues to build their capacity for driving impactful change across various sectors.
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