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Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, has declared that the country’s current broad economic reforms are an “imperative” and not merely an option for growth, emphasising that his administration is investing more to alleviate the resulting public hardship.
The president’s message was delivered by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, at the 2025 Annual Directors Conference of the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIOD) of Nigeria.
Bagudu commended the gathering as a crucial platform for dialogue on corporate governance and setting new directions for both public and private enterprises.
The minister noted that the conference theme, “Leading Through Change: Building Sustainable and Inclusive Enterprises,” comes at a critical time as Nigeria refocuses its economy to align with global dynamics, technological disruptions, and climate change challenges.
In the message, President Tinubu stressed the vital role of leadership during this period of transition.
“Leadership must rise to the challenge. It must be visionary in charting new paths, embracing reform, and unwavering in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and social inclusion,” the message read.
Tinubu argued that for a nation like Nigeria, facing the necessity of diversifying its economy and generating value, “the call to lead through change is not merely an option but an imperative.”
He challenged leaders to imagine and work towards a more resilient future.
The president acknowledged the challenges of generating jobs for a young population and competing in a global market that rewards innovation.
While recognising that change is inevitable, he assured directors, policymakers, and entrepreneurs that the current reform measures are designed to be opportunities for innovation and creativity.
“We’re investing more to reduce the hardship our people are experiencing,” the message concluded, reaffirming the government’s commitment to easing the pressure caused by the ongoing economic restructuring.
