The 2022 Annual Retreat of the Delegation is the first in 2 years following the outbreak of Covid19 in 2020. The retreat, which was attended by the Ambassador, Permanent Delegate, H.E. Dr. Hajo Sani, the Deputy Permanent Delegate, Mr. I. S. Egbo as well as other diplomatic and non-diplomatic staff took place at Muides-Sur-Loire, from 21st to 25th March, 2022.
Some of the major objectives of the Retreat were to review past activities, make plans for the year and to renew energy and cave channel for innovation in future activities for greater impact. The Ambassador in one of her remarks stated that “our reflection on impact must be double-edged. In line with our mandate of ensuring Nigeria’s vivid presence in UNESCO and promoting UNESCO’s activities in Nigeria through partnership, we must continue to measure our impact at the level of UNESCO on one hand; and on the other hand, with government, MDAs and all stakeholders in Nigeria.”
Presentations were made by all Programme Officers covering all sectors under their responsibilities, the mandate for 2022 was defined and there were several discussions held that was geared towards team building and fostering better working relationships not only between staff but also between the Delegation, UNESCO and Nigeria.
In addition, there was a presentation on Work Ethics by H. E. Hajiya Zainab Maina, Nigeria’s former Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development. she delivered an extensive lecture on Service Delivery. She encouraged all staff to remain dedicated, committed, and to maintain a positive attitude in discharging their respective functions.
On the last day of the Retreat, the Delegation went on a cultural tour at Chambord. They paid a courtesy visit to the Mayor of Chambord, Mr. Andre JOLY, visited the Castle of Chambord and the Church of St. Louis.
Mr. Andre along with his team briefed the Delegation on the history of the village, the population as well as the cultural significance of the town. He also pointed several challenges over the years and thereafter asked some questions about Nigeria.
The Castle of Chambord was built primarily to serve as a hunting lodge for King Francis I. It is the Largest Castle in the Loire Valley with over 400 rooms and is one of the most recognizable castles in the world. It is also one of the most prominent structures displaying the distinct French renaissance architectural style.
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