Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, addressed the ongoing nationwide protests against “bad governance,” emphasizing the need for patience and sacrifice to rescue the Nigerian economy.

Speaking at the 2024 African Caucus Meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors in Abuja, Bagudu defended President Bola Tinubu’s bold reforms. He acknowledged the challenges inherited by the administration and assured citizens that their voices were heard.

Bagudu urged Nigerians to recognize that policy interventions take time to yield results. He stated, “We have invested in so many things in our national life, and when a leader courageously says, ‘I want to take them on,’ it’s risky, it’s bold, but sometimes it can generate reactions.”

The minister commended Tinubu’s commitment to positively impact Nigerians through well-thought-out policies. He emphasized that democracy allowed diverse opinions and encouraged citizens to remain engaged in the process.