President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has defended his administration's borrowing policy, stating that taking loans for infrastructure development is not a negative practice. Speaking during a meeting with Plateau leaders on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, Tinubu emphasized that borrowing is essential for national progress and should not be stigmatized.
Tinubu's Statement on Borrowing
We have to borrow if necessary. Borrowing is not leprosy; we just have to work hard to repay it, Tinubu said. The meeting included Governor Caleb Mutfwang and Nentawe Yilwatda, national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Loan Request for Sokoto-Badagry Highway
The president recently asked the Senate to approve a fresh $516 million loan from Deutsche Bank to fund sections of the Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway. The 1,000-kilometer project aims to connect Nigeria's North-West and South-West, cutting travel time between Sokoto and Lagos by nearly half. Lawmakers believe the highway could boost trade, food security, and national integration.
Public Reaction
Nigerians have expressed strong reactions on social media. User @zainababbaharuna414 questioned, But we don't have to borrow. You can't withhold 2 years budget and then go borrowing to cover up for that. Where did the money go to? Thiefnubu, what hard work have you cut out for us? Taxation right? @alexfreemind5143 stated, This man really wants to finish Nigeria using borrowing of loans as a tool to cripple Nigeria to zero. @DANYAROYAKUBUB added, Borrow for what reason, borrow to steal, is not allowed. Where is the subsidy money? This is cruel and insensitive.
House of Representatives Approval
Earlier, the House of Representatives approved Tinubu's request to borrow $516,333,007 for infrastructure development. Deputy Chairman Abdullahi Rasheed presented the committee report, which lawmakers adopted during plenary. The loan is designated for the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway to enhance connectivity and economic activities.
Atiku's Criticism
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the loan request, warning against prioritizing borrowing over responsible governance and sustainable development. Atiku urged federal lawmakers to scrutinize loan terms for the benefit of Nigerians.
