"Atiku Bagudu Says Tinubu Led a Modest Life and Lived in a 3-Bedroom Apartment Before Election"

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, has lauded President Bola Tinubu for his unassuming and modest lifestyle. Bagudu made these comments during the conclusion of a three-day Cabinet Retreat at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja on November 3, 2023. He emphasized that the Presidential yacht was not intended for Tinubu's personal use and aimed to dispel any misconceptions surrounding it.

In his statement, Bagudu defended the N2.2 trillion budget, asserting that the majority of it, 95 percent to be precise, was justified. He commended President Tinubu for his prudent allocation of resources and stated, "I think President Tinubu should be given credit for it."

Bagudu went on to elaborate on President Tinubu's frugal lifestyle, highlighting that the leader is content with his accomplishments and does not seek personal luxuries. He noted, "Before he was elected president, he stayed in a three-bedroom apartment in Abuja. He lives a modest, humble life."

Bagudu also defended the allocation of a substantial portion of the budget to defense and security, underscoring their critical role in enhancing national security. He referenced President Tinubu's campaign promises to prioritize security, which justified the allocation of 30 percent of the supplementary budget to the defense sector.

Additionally, Bagudu stressed the importance of supporting vulnerable segments of the population and keeping commitments. He explained that 30 percent of the supplementary budget was earmarked for palliatives, including N400 billion for cash transfers and N200 billion for cash awards. Infrastructure development also received attention, with approximately 25 percent of the supplementary budget allocated to this area. In total, about 85 percent of the budget was dedicated to these three crucial areas.

Bagudu concluded by emphasizing the significance of having a well-thought-out plan and adhering to it, citing expert studies that highlight this as a key factor in distinguishing countries that achieve growth from those that do not.