Bagudu defends Tinubu, saying it is unfair to judge the President by regional sentiments and insisting his reforms benefit all Nigerians

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against criticisms rooted in regional bias, describing it as unfair to assess the administration through ethnic or sectional sentiments.

Also read: ‘Making a mark’ Bagudu commissions recreational centre, advocates collective efforts against drug abuse (Photos)

Senator Bagudu made the remarks on Wednesday during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show, where he addressed concerns over the direction and impact of the President’s reform agenda.

The minister said President Tinubu’s policies are transformational and inclusive, stressing that the reforms are designed to benefit all regions of Nigeria, including the North.

Senator Bagudu argued that President Tinubu has consistently demonstrated a nationalist approach to governance throughout his political career. According to the minister, the President’s history of supporting leaders from different parts of the country reflects a commitment to national unity rather than regional loyalty.

“It is unfair for any Nigerian to assess President Tinubu based on regional sentiments,” Senator Bagudu said. “President Tinubu has consistently adopted a nationalist approach to governance.”

He cited the President’s past political alliances with former President Muhammadu Buhari, the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former anti-corruption chief Nuhu Ribadu as evidence of that record.

Senator Bagudu maintained that the reforms introduced by the current administration are equitable and far-reaching.

He described ongoing initiatives across the country as bold steps aimed at restructuring the economy and strengthening national cohesion.

“President Tinubu is undertaking transformational projects in all parts of Nigeria,” the minister said, adding that the measures being implemented are intended to bridge longstanding divisions and stabilise the economy.

Also read: ‘Commendable!’ Bagudu praises Buhari for investing so much in security

The comments come amid heightened political debate over the impact of federal reforms and growing scrutiny of the administration’s policies across different regions of the country.