By Milcah Tanimu
The newly appointed Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, has unveiled the government’s ambitious goal of achieving double-digit economic growth during President Bola Tinubu’s tenure.
Addressing the public for the first time after assuming office in Abuja on Tuesday, Mr. Bagudu expressed the administration’s commitment to fostering substantial economic expansion.
He highlighted that President Tinubu envisions a future where the Nigerian economy thrives at a double-digit growth rate, promoting inclusivity across all regions of the nation.
Mr. Bagudu emphasized that the president firmly believes in the attainability of such growth, drawing inspiration from other nations that have achieved this feat. He stressed the importance of an economy that encourages healthy competition, rewards diligence, and extends its benefits to every citizen.
“Bold and proactive measures have already been taken to reposition Nigeria’s economic trajectory,” he stated. He underscored President Tinubu’s establishment of a robust institutional framework aimed at sustaining this accelerated growth.
The minister pointed out a significant policy alteration, namely the merger of the functions of the National Planning Commission and the Budget Office of the Federation under the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.
This restructuring, Mr. Bagudu explained, aims to streamline planning and budgeting processes by establishing a coherent institutional framework that facilitates effective implementation.
He outlined the upcoming initiatives, including the harmonization of planning strategies, alignment of priorities in medium-term development plans, and synchronization of sector-specific reports with the Sustainable Development Goals and the presidential campaign manifesto.
Mr. Bagudu also emphasized the need to prioritize strategies that enhance Nigeria’s image on the global stage. He pledged to operate an open-door policy within the ministry, emphasizing the importance of knowledge exchange to propel the country’s economic growth.
In conclusion, the minister’s inaugural address showcased the government’s determination to pursue a path of vigorous economic expansion, echoing President Tinubu’s vision of a Nigeria that achieves and sustains double-digit growth rates while fostering inclusivity and development.
