President Bola Tinubu has attributed Nigeria’s development challenges to the failure of previous administrations to adopt long-term planning strategies, noting that the approach has slowed sustainable growth.
Speaking on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, while hosting a delegation of Enugu State stakeholders led by Governor Peter Mbah, Tinubu highlighted what he described as a longstanding policy gap in governance.
He said successive governments often depended on short-term funding to execute long-term projects, a mismatch he believes has hindered national progress.
“What has been the problem in the past is Nigeria trying to finance long-term projects with short-term funding.
“We have not embarked upon serious long-term outlook for our country.”
Despite these challenges, the president expressed optimism about Nigeria’s prospects, stressing that effective leadership at the state level could drive stronger growth and elevate the country’s position across the continent. He commended Mbah’s administration, pointing to strides in security, infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
“The results you have outlined are not abstract. They are evidence that reform is working and that difficult decisions are yielding real outcomes.”
Tinubu also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to working with state governments, citing key initiatives such as the Port Harcourt–Enugu rail line and ongoing power sector reforms as critical to development.
“It’s not a one-man orchestra. It’s a collective effort at the national, subnational and local government levels,” he said, urging governors to ensure development reaches grassroots communities.
Earlier, Mbah said the delegation’s visit was to appreciate Federal Government interventions in Enugu State and reaffirm support for Tinubu’s administration. He highlighted major initiatives, including the concessioning of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport and the creation of the South East Development Commission.
The governor noted that ongoing infrastructure projects—such as sections of the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway and the Enugu–Onitsha road—have improved connectivity, while the planned completion of the Port Harcourt–Enugu rail line is expected to stimulate economic activities.
He added that security has improved significantly in the state, alongside investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, which have enhanced livelihoods. Mbah also reiterated the support of Enugu residents for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election.
Other members of the delegation included Ken Nnamani, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Sullivan Chime, Jim Nwobodo, and Ejike Mbaka, among others.
