President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring equitable development across all regions of Nigeria, pledging that no area will be left behind.
The president gave the assurance on Tuesday in Kaduna during a two-day interactive session on Government-Citizen Engagement, organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation.
Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, stated that the ongoing engagement between federal ministers and stakeholders would unveil empirical facts and figures that disprove claims of northern neglect.
“Our Renewed Hope Agenda is rooted in equity and inclusivity. Every region matters, and every citizen counts,” he said.
Renewed Hope Agenda: Key Focus Areas
The president outlined achievements and ongoing reforms under his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, spanning economic recovery, infrastructure, education, health, security, and agriculture.
He said the administration had taken bold steps to stabilise and grow the economy, including:
Unification of the exchange rate
Restructuring of the national debt profile
Removal of the fuel subsidy, which he described as “painful but necessary,” saving trillions of naira.
According to Tinubu, the savings from the subsidy removal are now being redirected to critical infrastructure and human capital development, while states are receiving increased federal allocations to support local development.
“The Palliative Measures Plan, MSME support schemes, and public transportation upgrades are all part of efforts to cushion the effects of the reform,” he added.
Major Projects and Reforms
He listed key national projects, including:
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway
The Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway
Ongoing rail projects: Kano-Maradi and Port Harcourt-Maiduguri
Nationwide housing initiatives
On security, Tinubu said investments were being made in modernising security equipment and retraining personnel to ensure safety and stability across the country.
He also spoke on education and youth empowerment, revealing that over 400,000 tertiary students have so far benefited from the Student Loan Programme, with more than ₦53 billion disbursed.
Reforming Agriculture and Energy
The president emphasised agriculture as a driver of self-sufficiency and economic growth, promising continued support to modernise farming, expand market access, and increase farmers’ access to finance.
He also underscored reforms in the energy and natural resources sector, aimed at attracting investment, adopting modern technology, and ensuring environmental sustainability.
“With sustainable management and strategic investment, we are unlocking Nigeria’s vast potential for growth,” he stated.
Call for Unity and Patience
Speaking on the event’s theme, “Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government-Citizen Engagement for National Development,” Tinubu said the Renewed Hope Agenda goes beyond campaign rhetoric.
He described it as a pragmatic governance blueprint built on the pillars of:
Transparency
Accountability
Equity
Rule of law
Participation
Responsiveness
Inclusivity
“Real transformation takes time. We urge citizens to remain patient and involved as we continue this journey of national renewal,” he said.
Tribute to Northern Icons
Tinubu paid tribute to the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello, describing him as a remarkable leader who championed national cohesion.
He also honoured the legacy of prominent northern leaders such as:
Chief Solomon Lar
Mallam Adamu Ciroma
Shehu Dan Musa
Abubakar Rimi
Prof. Suleiman Kumo
Isaac Shaahu
Prof. Jerry Gana
He praised their patriotism, sincerity, and dedication to the unity and progress of Nigeria.
Meanwhile, NAN reports that SGF Akume led a high-powered federal delegation to the event, which included several ministers, director-generals of key agencies, and top political aides from across the country.