Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has significantly strengthened Nigeria’s federal system through bold economic reforms and inclusive governance. Bagudu made the assertion yesterday at the National Economic Council (NEC) Conference, which concluded in Abuja.
He noted that the president’s policy decisions have led to increased financial inflows to subnational governments, enabling states and local governments to provide more infrastructure and social amenities for their people. According to the minister, the reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration have not only stabilised public finance but have also reinforced Nigeria’s unity as a federation by empowering all tiers of government to play their roles more effectively.
He highlighted the president’s strong support for the National Economic Council, which comprises the 36 state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, stressing that the council has become a vital platform for collaboration and shared decision-making between the federal, state and local governments. Bagudu explained that President Tinubu’s active interest in the NEC, which serves as the president’s key economic advisory body, reflects his deep commitment to cooperative federalism.
He added that the president’s bipartisan approach to state affairs has helped ease long-standing tensions and reduced friction between the federal government and subnational entities. “President Tinubu has strengthened our federalism,” Bagudu said, adding that the administration’s inclusive engagement with governors across party lines has fostered trust, cooperation and a sense of shared responsibility for national development.
The minister expressed optimism that the enhanced cooperation being witnessed through the NEC would translate into sustainable economic growth, improved service delivery and a more balanced federation, as all levels of government work together to address the country’s developmental challenges.
