President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has defended Nigeria’s borrowing plans outlined in the proposed 2025 budget, stressing that it is crucial for addressing the country’s long-standing infrastructure gaps and development needs.
Speaking at a Presidential chat in Abuja, Tinubu asserted that borrowing is not inherently criminal, but rather a necessary tool to correct economic imbalances and invest in long-term projects aimed at national prosperity.
“Borrowing is not criminal. We are addressing a mismatch between our needs and available resources,” Tinubu said. “Without investing in long-term projects, we won’t have the resources to manage them in the short term. Yes, we’ve made mistakes in the past, but I’m focused on building a prosperous future for Nigeria.”
The President acknowledged that the nation’s rebuilding process will not be immediate, urging patience and persistence from Nigerians.
“Despite the criticism, this is a project of restoration and hope. Nigeria is on a path to recovery. We can’t complete everything in one year, but that doesn’t mean I’m making excuses,” Tinubu concluded.