By Milcah Tanimu
Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, has urged a nationwide mobilization to combat poverty and injustice. Speaking at the unveiling of ActionAid Nigeria’s new strategy, “Citizens Action to End Poverty and Injustice 2024-2034,” Bagudu stressed that Nigeria’s chronic underdevelopment is the result of long-term underinvestment rather than the fault of any single administration.
Bagudu addressed the issue by urging Nigerians to recognize their financial constraints. “We are not as rich as we think we are,” he said, emphasizing that this understanding should motivate citizens to contribute more effectively to national development.
The minister highlighted the need for active citizen engagement with government initiatives, not just for support but for holding officials accountable. He underscored that merely harboring anger towards one another would not resolve the issues at hand. Instead, he called for cooperation and constructive criticism as essential tools for progress.
Bagudu’s appeal for a collective effort aims to foster a fairer society where every contribution is valued, and local economies are inclusive.
At the same event, Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, highlighted the urgent situation, noting that 133 million Nigerians are multidimensionally poor, lacking both financial resources and access to essential services.
Mamedu introduced ActionAid’s strategy focusing on four main actions: Organize, Act, Shift, and Thrive. This approach aims to empower citizens to drive systemic change while prioritizing human rights and community involvement. He also acknowledged the struggles faced by protesters and stressed the importance of supporting their efforts.
“This strategy is not merely a plan; it represents our commitment to act with urgency and integrity,” Mamedu concluded, calling for unified action to achieve substantial and meaningful change.
