Nigeria’s economy is on the rebound thanks to President Tinubu’s reforms, says Budget Minister Bagudu. Despite short-term hardships, funding for critical sectors has nearly tripled. There’s renewed investor interest and confidence in leadership. NWDC’s Suleiman adds that Tinubu’s two years have outperformed the previous administration’s eight. Both urge patience, expressing belief in solid foundations for future success.
Senator Atiku Bagudu, Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, recently stated that President Bola Tinubu’s bold reforms over the past two years are setting the stage for economic recovery, despite the ongoing challenges. Speaking following a visit to Tinubu’s home in Lagos, Bagudu commented that Nigeria is beginning to reap the rewards of much-needed economic shifts.
Bagudu emphasized that while the country hasn’t reached its full potential yet, the reforms are steering the economy toward a brighter future. One significant change was the removal of costly subsidies for fuel, foreign exchange, and electricity, which he described as a crucial turning point. “Decades of underinvestment brought Nigeria to a point where even paying salaries was difficult,” he remarked. By eliminating these subsidies, the government has made more funds available; in fact, states and local governments have reportedly seen their financial resources nearly triple.
These additional funds are being directed into vital sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, and human capital development, Bagudu noted. “These are not abstract promises. We are seeing real allocations going to security, education, and economic empowerment,” he stated. He also pointed out that the reforms are restoring investor faith in the country’s economy.
“As we fix years of neglect, we’re witnessing a noteworthy return of private capital, both from domestic and international sources. Investors now view Nigeria as a serious investment destination,” he maintained. He compared the government’s current efforts to addressing structural issues in a building, stating that visible progress takes time, but these pivotal reforms are essential for long-term stability.
In addition, Bagudu mentioned the increasing number of opposition politicians, including governors from Delta and Akwa Ibom states, joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a testament to Tinubu’s leadership. According to Bagudu, this trend reflects a growing belief in the vision and direction of the current administration.
As the country celebrates Eid and marks two years of Tinubu’s administration, he reiterated that the reforms are generating investment and hope, despite facing serious national challenges. A fellow member of the newly established North West Development Commission (NWDC), Aminu Suleiman, echoed these views, stating that Tinubu’s leadership is laying the groundwork for significant transformation.
Suleiman boldly claimed, “Tinubu’s two years is even better than the past government’s eight years.” He expressed confidence that if given a full term, Tinubu could bring about lasting change in Nigeria. He also praised the inclusion of the North West region in the administration’s developmental plans, noting its sizeable population of nearly 19 million people.
He recognized that the establishment of the NWDC represents essential progress for the North West. Suleiman believes Tinubu’s successful track record in Lagos gives him every reason to expect similar successes nationwide. Urging patience, he said, “Let us be patient. The foundation being laid is solid. With time, we will all see the results.”
In summary, Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, argues that the enduring reforms under President Bola Tinubu are beginning to bear fruit, paving the way for long-term growth. With a focus on critical sectors, the government aims to restore investor confidence, despite ongoing economic hurdles. As the administration commemorates its second anniversary, both Bagudu and NWDC member Suleiman express optimism for a brighter future under Tinubu’s leadership.
Original Source: punchng.com
