Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, the Minister for Budget and Economic Planning, has affirmed his commitment to vigorously pursue the current administration’s vision of achieving double-digit economic growth. He emphasized the importance of this pursuit for the benefit of the nation’s inclusivity and rapid development.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The Minister specifically highlighted agriculture as one of the key components of the administration’s 8-point agenda, essential for realizing a double-digit GDP growth rate for the country….CONTINUE READING
Bagudu made these remarks during a meeting in his office in Abuja with a delegation from IFAD (International Fund for Agricultural Development), led by its Country Director, Dede Ekoue.
He stressed that the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning plays a pivotal role in realizing the administration’s double-digit growth vision. He further stated that the Ministry would enhance its framework for coordinated planning and budgeting roles.
Bagudu commended IFAD for its longstanding support in Nigeria, expressing hope for continued productive collaboration.
The Minister also acknowledged IFAD’s contributions to a high-level session on “Nigeria’s Innovative Financing for Food System Transformation” held in Rome, chaired by the Vice President of Nigeria, Sen. Kazeem Shettima, during the UNFSS +2 Stocktaking Moment in July of the current year.
He praised IFAD for empowering rural communities, particularly women, by increasing their access to resources, infrastructure, and services, as well as promoting sustainable land and water management and community-based property rights to combat environmental degradation.
Furthermore, Bagudu recognized IFAD’s partnership with the Nigerian government in capacity building, institution strengthening, policy adjustments, and the development of local organizations to facilitate poverty reduction and economic growth.
During the meeting, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Nebeolisa Anako, introduced IFAD as one of the UN Agencies designated by the Secretary General of the United Nations to support the implementation of the Food System Transformation Pathways coordinated by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.
The Country Director of IFAD, Dede Ekoue, congratulated Minister Bagudu on his appointment and expressed confidence in his extensive network of connections.
She reiterated IFAD’s commitment to supporting the Ministry’s policies and initiatives that would positively impact the lives of Nigerians.
Ekoue recalled the successful implementation of the Food System Transformation program introduced by IFAD in Nigeria, emphasizing the crucial role of government support.
She advocated for a continued partnership between the federal government and IFAD to foster growth and innovation. Additionally, she called for the inclusion of farmers and relevant stakeholders in the Ministry’s policies and programs.
