The Presidency has dismissed comments made by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who warned that rising hunger in Nigeria could spark unrest similar to the French Revolution of 1789 or the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution in Russia.
In a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, on Monday evening, the Presidency described Atiku’s remarks as “cheap talk” and “out of touch with authentic Nigerian reality.”
Presidency Cites Positive Economic Data
According to the statement, Nigeria’s economy is showing signs of improvement:
-
Headline inflation has reportedly declined for the fifth consecutive month (as of August).
-
The country recorded a trade surplus, with non-oil exports nearly matching crude oil exports in a 48:52 ratio.
-
Foreign reserves have risen to nearly $42bn, up from $32bn when Tinubu took office, after clearing over $7bn in arrears, including $800m owed to foreign airlines.
The Presidency further stated that federal revenues are at record levels, enabling states to pay salaries and gratuities on time while still investing in capital and social projects.
Atiku Accused of “Doomsday Rhetoric”
Onanuga accused Atiku and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of ignoring these gains while focusing on negative narratives.
“In contrast, Atiku and his party remain stuck in the past, fixated on doomsday scenarios and revolutionary rhetoric. Ironically, many of the challenges we face today stem from the economic mismanagement during the PDP years, when Atiku was Vice President,” the statement read.
Tinubu’s Reforms
Since assuming office, President Tinubu has introduced sweeping economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and exchange rate unification.
Officials argue these measures are stabilising public finances and attracting foreign investment. However, critics maintain they have worsened hardship, with food inflation and poverty levels still biting hard across the country.
Despite these criticisms, the Presidency insists Nigeria is “moving in the right direction.”
“We are proud of the progress being made under President Tinubu’s leadership. Atiku and his allies may choose to ignore these gains, but Nigerians can see and feel the positive changes taking place across the nation,” Onanuga concluded.
