Tinubu Advancing Buhari’s Institutional Reforms – Former SGF Boss Mustapha

At the recent public unveiling of “According to the President”, a book authored by ex-presidential spokesman Garba Shehu in Abuja, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is actively consolidating and expanding on the reform agenda laid down by his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari.

Speaking at the event, Mustapha emphasized that President Tinubu has demonstrated continuity in governance by upholding and enhancing the foundational reforms implemented during the Buhari administration. According to him, these reforms are crucial to strengthening Nigeria’s institutional framework and setting a path for sustainable national development.

“President Buhari governed with a sense of responsibility, not for showmanship. He was guided by a strong adherence to principles rather than the pursuit of public validation,” Mustapha remarked.

He praised Tinubu’s administration for staying the course, noting that unlike governance driven by individual charisma or populist tactics, both Buhari and Tinubu have shown dedication to systemic and institutionalized governance. This approach, he said, is critical for Nigeria’s long-term growth and democratic stability.

Key Reforms Under Buhari That Tinubu Is Building On

Mustapha pointed to several pivotal policies initiated by Buhari, which have laid a strong groundwork for the Tinubu administration to scale further. These include:

• The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA): Enacted under Buhari to restructure Nigeria’s oil sector, attract investment, and improve transparency. President Tinubu has continued engaging stakeholders to implement its provisions more effectively. [External source – NUPRC Analysis]
• Massive Infrastructure Development: From roads and bridges to rail and airports, Buhari prioritized key infrastructure, laying the platform for Tinubu’s administration to expand transport and logistics networks across the country.
• Military Modernization: Under Buhari, significant investments were made to upgrade military hardware and intelligence. Tinubu’s leadership has reaffirmed commitment to national security by continuing these modernization efforts.
• National Social Investment Programme (NSIP): This flagship initiative aimed at poverty reduction and youth empowerment, including schemes like N-Power and TraderMoni, is being reviewed and strengthened under Tinubu’s government for improved efficiency and reach.
• Reforms in Agriculture and Power: Buhari’s administration made strides in revitalizing agriculture through initiatives like the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme. Tinubu is pushing these efforts forward, targeting food security and energy access.
• Advancement in the Digital Economy: The Buhari era saw Nigeria embrace digitalization through programs in fintech, broadband penetration, and e-government. Tinubu is sustaining momentum with a vision of tech-driven growth and economic diversification.

According to Mustapha, these cumulative efforts form a comprehensive architecture of inclusive development, which transcends political personalities and reflects a shift toward a more strategic governance model.

He commended both leaders for resisting the urge to pursue short-term popularity, focusing instead on long-term national interests and the institutional strengthening of key sectors.