Tinubu pledges boost for agriculture, vows to crush banditry, terrorism

2026-02-09 - 14:49

By Progress Godfrey, Abuja President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday pledged accelerated agricultural development and a renewed offensive against banditry and terrorism, while assuring states of continued robust federal allocations, infrastructure delivery, and expanded social investment programs. Speaking at the second edition of the National Economic Council (NEC) Conference, held on February 9–10 at the Presidential Villa’s Banquet Hall, Tinubu said Nigeria is at a critical juncture that requires bold reforms, cooperative federalism, and decisive implementation to move from economic recovery to full transformation. “The theme of this year’s conference, ‘Delivering Inclusive Growth and Sustainable National Development: the Renewable Hope National Development Plan,’ reflects our resolve to move from recovery to transformation, and from malnutrition to warm action that is inclusive, resilient, and sustainable,” Tinubu said. On security, the President vowed to strengthen Nigeria’s forces and intensify efforts to defeat terrorism and banditry, describing insecurity as a major economic hindrance. “We will overcome this unacceptable terrorism and banditry. It’s not part of our culture. It’s foreign to us,” he stated. Tinubu also highlighted the administration’s economic reforms, which he said are stabilizing the economy, restoring investor confidence, and improving fiscal capacity across federal, state, and local governments. He noted increased and predictable federal allocations, prioritisation of infrastructure across transport, power, digital connectivity, housing, and irrigation, and expanded social investment programs for vulnerable households, youth, women, and small businesses. The President emphasized that the Renewable Hope National Development Plan will focus on economic diversification, human capital development, private sector-led growth, and climate resilience, with implementation down to ward levels. Speaking at the conference, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, hailed NEC as a vital platform for strengthening Nigeria’s federal system and national consensus. Bagudu praised the administration’s reforms, noting global recognition from institutions like the World Bank and IMF, which cited Nigeria as a reference point for economic restructuring. Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chairs NEC, underscored the importance of translating economic progress into tangible improvements in citizens’ lives. He stressed that inclusive growth requires collaboration across all tiers of government and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals. “Our pathway lies in reinventing strategies, harmonizing operations across government, and taking decisive steps towards a resilient and equitable economy,” Shettima said.