Tinubu's Government Welcomes Ideas, Driven by Bold Reforms - Bagudu

A Commitment to Leadership and Development

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, has emphasized that the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not claim exclusive knowledge in addressing Nigeria’s challenges. Instead, the government remains open to constructive ideas and suggestions from all sectors of society.

During the annual lecture and graduation ceremony for the 22nd cohort of the Centre for Leadership Strategy and Development (Centre LSD) School of Leadership, Bagudu highlighted the importance of focusing on solutions rather than assigning blame. He explained that the Renewed Hope Agenda was created to address the country's economic difficulties when Tinubu took office in 2023.

The minister noted that bold decisions were necessary to prevent the economy from collapsing, including the removal of fuel subsidies. Despite these challenging measures, he pointed out that the reforms have led to significant progress, such as a threefold increase in revenue generation and statutory allocations to the three tiers of government over the past two years.

Bagudu stressed that while Nigeria is making progress toward sustainable development, it is essential to avoid comparisons with countries like the United Arab Emirates, Rwanda, or Singapore. He emphasized that Nigeria operates within a constitutional democracy and free market system, which influences its pace of growth. The World Bank has projected a 3.7% increase in Nigeria's GDP for 2025, further supporting the administration's efforts.

Bagudu assured the audience that the government is humble and receptive to suggestions that can help improve the situation. He acknowledged that while some results are already visible, there is still room for improvement. For example, the revenue allocated to sub-national governments has tripled, and some states have seen a reduction in domestic debt by up to 80% due to the federal government's active involvement in clearing debts.

Addressing Leadership Challenges

Earlier, the founding Executive Director of Centre LSD, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, expressed concerns about the state of leadership in Nigeria and Africa. He noted that despite abundant human and natural resources, the continent continues to face issues such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality. Igbuzor argued that successful nations today have leaders who provide clear vision, build strong institutions, and mobilize citizens toward productive engagement.

He pointed out that Nigerians excel globally in various fields but struggle with poor governance and economic performance at home. According to Igbuzor, the key to progress lies in effective political leadership. This realization led to the establishment of the Centre LSD Leadership School, aimed at cultivating visionary, strategic, and transformative leaders across the nation and continent.

Igbuzor emphasized that leadership is crucial for the success of any organization, institution, or nation. He encouraged graduands to become ambassadors of transformational leadership, urging them to anchor their journey on character, competence, courage, and compassion. He called on all leaders, citizens, and institutions to commit to rebuilding Nigeria and Africa, emphasizing the need for values, leadership, and action.

Expanding Access to Quality Leadership Education

Executive Director of Centre LSD, Mr. Monday Osasah, highlighted that the 22nd graduation ceremony marks the total number of Centre LSD Leadership School graduates reaching an impressive 2,950. He reiterated the center's commitment to sustaining efforts in leadership development.

Osasah mentioned that the Centre LSD Leadership Schools offer free education to ensure accessibility for those who may not afford high-quality learning elsewhere. He credited the selfless contributions of lecturers and the tireless efforts of the leadership school team, who dedicate their Saturdays to this noble cause.

Supporting Sustainable Development

In her remarks, Regional Director, West Africa, Ford Foundation, Dr. Chichi Aniagolu praised the mission of Centre LSD in building strategic leadership for sustainable development. She described the center's work as a true model of leadership, highlighting its commitment to nurturing the next generation of changemakers and creating spaces where potential can be realized.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Benson Uwheru, urged policymakers to adopt strategies that promote inclusive growth and foster public-private partnerships for sustainable development. His call echoed the broader goal of transforming Nigeria through effective leadership and collaborative efforts.