By Peter Adelowo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially launched the 2026–2030 Renewed Hope National Development Plan, marking what he described as a transition from economic recovery to a new phase of national transformation.
The President unveiled the five-year roadmap on Monday while declaring open the second edition of the National Economic Council, NEC, Conference at the State House, Abuja.
Addressing governors and key stakeholders, President Tinubu said Nigeria stands at a defining crossroads, noting that while his administration has focused on correcting inherited structural and fiscal challenges, the next phase must prioritize inclusive and grassroots-driven growth.
He explained that the new development plan is designed to ensure that economic progress is felt by ordinary Nigerians, especially at the state and local government levels.
The plan focuses on five core priorities: economic diversification and productivity; human capital development in health, education and skills; strengthening subnational competitiveness; promoting private sector-led growth; and advancing climate resilience and environmental sustainability.
President Tinubu also highlighted gains in fiscal federalism, stating that increased and more predictable allocations from the Federation Account have strengthened the capacity of states and local governments to meet salary obligations and deliver social services.
He cited the Renewed Hope Ward Development Project as part of efforts to deepen grassroots inclusion and shift from top-down governance to community-driven development.
The President urged governors to move from declarations to implementation, charging the NEC, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, to serve as a platform for data-driven decision-making and collaboration among states.
Vice President Shettima, in his remarks, described the NEC as the conscience of the federation and a vital platform for shaping Nigeria’s economic future.
He stressed that growth must translate into improved opportunities, dignity and hope for citizens.
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, commended the President for strengthening the NEC’s role and emphasized that achieving a one trillion dollar economy by 2030 would require close collaboration among federal, state and local governments, as well as the private sector.
Also speaking, the United Nations Development Programme Resident Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, welcomed the trillion-dollar economy target and proposed annual high-level engagements between development partners and the NEC.
The conference, themed “Delivering Inclusive Growth and Sustainable National Development: The Renewed Hope National Development Plan,” is expected to produce resolutions aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s path to sustainable and inclusive development.
