A recent critique by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar against the Tinubu administration has sparked widespread attention. However, a closer look reveals that his commentary is more politically charged than factually grounded.
While everyone is entitled to their opinion in Nigeria’s thriving democracy, Atiku’s sweeping criticisms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms fail to reflect the undeniable progress made over the past two years.
Unprecedented Reforms Rescuing Nigeria’s Economy
Since taking office in 2023, President Tinubu has launched bold economic and institutional reforms to rescue Nigeria from fiscal instability. Contrary to Atiku’s claims, these reforms have been necessary and long overdue—many were even proposed by previous administrations, including the Obasanjo-Atiku government, but never executed.
The removal of fuel subsidies and unification of the forex exchange rate are historic moves that have strengthened the economy, improved revenue, and curbed systemic corruption. These reforms have already boosted investor confidence. The Nigerian Exchange’s All-Share Index has surged from 50,000 to over 110,000 points, and market capitalization has grown to ₦69.4 trillion—more than double its 2023 level.
Social Investments and Wage Improvements
Far from being “anti-people,” Tinubu’s government has increased social safety nets, expanded health coverage, and introduced the Student Loan Scheme to ensure that financial hardship does not prevent access to higher education. Over 600,000 students have benefitted from these loans covering tuition and living costs.
Furthermore, the administration has more than doubled the national minimum wage, with many states now paying as much as ₦85,000 monthly, enabled by increased federal revenue allocations.
Addressing Misinformation on Borrowing and Budgets
Atiku’s claim that the administration is recklessly borrowing to fund the 2025 budget is not only false but misleading. The Minister of Finance has clarified that the government plans to borrow only $1.2 billion, significantly less than previous years. In fact, the Tinubu administration has repaid the $3.4 billion IMF loan from the COVID-19 era and discontinued decades-old Ways and Means deficit financing—a first in modern Nigerian history.
The debt service-to-revenue ratio has improved dramatically, dropping from 93% to 60%, marking a major step toward fiscal sustainability.
Tangible Progress in Agriculture, Health, and Infrastructure
Inflation is easing, food production is rising, and infrastructure investment is at an all-time high. The revitalization of primary health centers and the expansion of health insurance show the government’s commitment to public welfare, despite the challenges of economic transition.
Constructive Criticism is Welcome—But Must Be Informed
President Tinubu remains committed to democratic values and freedom of speech. Opposition voices like Atiku’s will not be silenced. However, Nigerians deserve leaders who offer practical alternatives, not just political attacks. Constructive opposition must be grounded in facts, not misinformation or nostalgia for administrations that sold national assets at undervalued prices and failed to build lasting progress.
As Nigeria marks two years under Tinubu’s leadership, the evidence of progress is visible—economic recovery, better fiscal management, increased investor confidence, and improved access to education and healthcare. The administration welcomes dialogue, but calls for opposition leaders to match criticism with clear, viable solutions.
