Abuja: The Presidency has dismissed recent criticisms by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar concerning rising hunger, asserting that Nigeria is making steady economic progress under President Bola Tinubu. This response comes amidst Atiku’s comments comparing Nigeria’s situation to historical revolutions in France and Russia.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Presidential Spokesperson Mr. Bayo Onanuga issued a statement in Abuja, describing Atiku’s remarks as ‘cheap talk’ that is disconnected from Nigeria’s current trajectory. Onanuga emphasized that the claims of widespread hunger and potential revolution are misleading and not reflective of the country’s ongoing developments.
Onanuga argued that recent statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) contradict Atiku’s assertions. He noted that the NBS data reveals a decline in headline inflation for the fifth consecutive month and highlights a record trade surplus, with non-oil exports nearly matching crude oil exports at a 48:52 ratio. These figures, he suggested, paint a different picture from Atiku’s portrayal of Nigeria’s economic condition.
Further, Onanuga pointed out that Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves have increased significantly, nearing 42 billion dollars, up from 32 billion dollars when Tinubu assumed office. This improvement, he stated, has allowed the administration to clear substantial arrears, contributing to enhanced financial stability.
The spokesperson also highlighted that revenue improvements have enabled states to meet financial obligations, such as timely payment of salaries and pensions, while also funding capital and social projects. Onanuga attributed many of Nigeria’s current challenges to economic mismanagement during the PDP years when Atiku was Vice President, asserting that Tinubu’s administration is making strides in correcting past errors with bold reforms.
Onanuga concluded by stating that Nigerians are witnessing and experiencing positive changes under Tinubu’s leadership, despite Atiku’s and his allies’ reluctance to acknowledge these gains.
