Tinubu Backs Sokoto–Badagry Road Project Despite It Not Being in Campaign Plans

Budget and Economic Planning Minister Atiku Bagudu says President Bola Tinubu is pushing ahead with the long-overdue Sokoto–Badagry development corridor, even though the project was not part of his original campaign promises.

Speaking at a government-citizen engagement forum in Kaduna on Tuesday, Bagudu said Tinubu’s decision is based on a broader commitment to inclusive growth through infrastructure, not politics.

His remarks come days after ex-Kano governor Rabiu Kwankwaso accused the federal government of favouring certain regions while ignoring others. In response, Bagudu said Tinubu’s administration is focused on reviving key national projects, including the Sokoto–Badagry route, which dates back to the Shehu Shagari era in the Third Republic.

“This project may not win political points, but the president sees it as vital to Nigeria’s future,” Bagudu said. “Rebuilding Nigeria requires difficult but necessary investments.”

He admitted that Nigeria’s economy is struggling under the weight of past decisions and external shocks, including recessions, droughts, and the COVID-19 pandemic. He said the Tinubu administration inherited a broken system — with an unstable forex market, unsustainable spending, and low reserves — but is taking tough steps to fix it.

Bagudu also explained the creation of new ministries and institutional reforms under Tinubu’s leadership, including new ministries for livestock development, arts and creative economy, marine and blue economy, and regional development.

“The goal is to stabilise and grow the economy to $1 trillion by 2030, while ensuring no region is left behind,” he said.

Bagudu noted that the end of fuel subsidies has helped states increase revenue. He gave an example of Jigawa State, whose debt reportedly dropped from ₦40 billion in mid-2023 to ₦1 billion by March 2025 — freeing up space for more sustainable borrowing.

He concluded by calling for a more systemic approach to addressing northern Nigeria’s challenges, saying he remains personally committed to using economic strategy to reduce marginalisation.