The Federal Government has announced that approximately 10 million citizens are expected to benefit from its Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, an initiative aimed at reducing poverty across all 8,809 wards in the country.
Minister Appointed Grand Patron
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, disclosed this during a meeting with Nigerian councillors under the National Councillors' Forum of Nigeria, which appointed him as its grand patron. Bagudu expressed humility at the honor, stating it would motivate him to intensify efforts to stimulate the grassroots economy for the benefit of the majority.
President Tinubu's Commitment
He reiterated President Bola Tinubu's commitment to improving living standards through extensive local governance reforms embedded in the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme. The programme aims to stimulate economic activity at the ward level by mapping dominant commercial endeavors in all 8,809 wards to identify those eligible for government support.
With about 10 million citizens expected to benefit, Bagudu noted that the administration's poverty-reduction objective would receive a significant boost. He thanked the forum for its support for President Tinubu, acknowledging that its endorsement of the president's second term reflects broad appreciation for his reform efforts, which are steadily improving the country's economy.
Forum's Recognition
The forum, comprising the country's 8,809 serving councillors, stated that the appointment recognized the minister's remarkable contributions to national development. In the letter of appointment dated 23 April 2026, signed by its President, Hon Abdulrazak Sama'ila, the forum wrote, “Your dedication to public service and to the development of our country makes you a perfect fit for this prestigious position.”
During the forum's weekend visit, Sama'ila presented the letter to Bagudu, emphasizing that the minister would play a crucial role in promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability at the grassroots level. The forum expressed hope to work with him and benefit from his insights and expertise.
