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Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, has reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable, and innovation-driven development, describing it as central to achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030.
Bagudu made this known yesterday in Abuja at the inaugural Annual Advocacy Lecture of the Nathaniel Atebije Foundation for planning advocacy, where he addressed stakeholders on Nigeria’s development priorities.
According to the minister, the administration’s vision was anchored on ensuring that development benefits all Nigerians, remains sustainable over time and adapts to emerging realities.
“Mr President believes that development must include everyone, be sustainable over time and embrace innovation, because what worked yesterday may not work today,” he said.
He disclosed that Nigeria is currently finalising its 2026 National Development Plan, a key component of efforts to transform the country into a $1 trillion economy within the next five years.
“Nigeria is not where we want to be, but we are determined to move forward with clear choices and a shared vision to unite all Nigerians towards achieving a $1 trillion economy,” he stated.
He noted that achieving the ambitious target would require broad collaboration across sectors, including intellectuals, professionals, and other critical stakeholders.
“This goal cannot be achieved in isolation. It requires deep thought, collaboration, and contributions from all sectors of our society,” he added.
The minister emphasised that national development goes beyond economic policies, stressing the need for coordinated planning across physical, environmental, social, and financial sectors.
He identified inclusiveness, sustainability, and innovation as the three pillars underpinning Nigeria’s development agenda.
Highlighting the role of physical planning, he described it as vital to economic growth and national stability, noting that many conflicts across the country, particularly those involving land use among farmers, herders, and communities are linked to inadequate planning.
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“Many of the conflicts we face today stem from how we use land and space. Poor planning breeds tension, while good planning fosters peace and prosperity,” he said.
He stressed that planning must be people-centred, focusing on how communities live and interact, rather than just infrastructure and land allocation.
“Planning is not just about land or infrastructure; it is about people and how they live together,” he added.
The minister linked these priorities to the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to unify Nigerians around a shared vision for progress, urging stakeholders to focus on forward-looking solutions rather than past challenges.
“Rather than spend all our energy debating the past, we must focus on what unites us and drives collective action for the future,” he said.
He also underscored the importance of intergovernmental collaboration, calling for stronger coordination among federal, state, and local governments to ensure effective and inclusive planning.
“Development is a shared responsibility. Federal, state, and local governments must collaborate to ensure planning is inclusive and effective,” he stated.
He further highlighted the need to adopt modern planning approaches in response to population growth and rapid technological changes.
“As our population grows and technology reshapes our world, we must plan more intelligently and proactively to meet emerging demands,” he said.
Concluding, the minister expressed optimism that effective planning would unlock opportunities, reduce conflicts, and foster national unity.
“If we get our planning right by being inclusive, sustainable, and innovative, we will create opportunities for all Nigerians and build a more prosperous and united nation,” he said.
