Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic policies, saying Nigeria cannot build a $1 trillion economy while citizens struggle with rising poverty.
The former vice-president and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) made the comments through his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Atiku Abubakar argued that the economic gains highlighted by the Tinubu administration had not translated into better living conditions for many Nigerians.
He said the government’s claims of improved macroeconomic indicators did not reflect the experience of households facing increasing financial pressure.
“You cannot build a $1 trillion economy by making your own people poorer,” Mr Atiku said.
He also questioned the impact of the administration’s economic reforms, particularly on ordinary Nigerians dealing with higher living costs.
The former vice-president said economic growth should improve people’s living standards rather than increase the pressure on families.
His comments come as the Tinubu administration continues to defend its economic policies and point to improvements in key macroeconomic indicators.
The government has introduced major reforms since President Tinubu took office, including changes to fuel subsidy policy and foreign exchange management.
However, these measures have also triggered widespread debate over their short-term effects on households and businesses.
Atiku has repeatedly criticised the government’s handling of the economy and called for policies that would reduce hardship and create broader economic opportunities.
The latest statement therefore adds to the political debate over how Nigeria should pursue economic growth while addressing the rising cost of living.
For now, the disagreement centres on whether improvements in national economic indicators are translating into meaningful gains for ordinary Nigerians.
Atiku Abubakar remains a major opposition voice as political parties and politicians prepare for the next electoral cycle.
