Former Nigerian Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over rising poverty levels, following a report by the World Bank.
In a statement released on Friday, Mr Abubakar said more than 60% of Nigerians are now living below the poverty line, compared with about 40% a few years ago.
He described the situation as “a monumental regression” and blamed it on government policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the devaluation of the naira.
“The consequences are visible everywhere,” he said. “Food prices have risen sharply, inflation has reduced incomes, small businesses are struggling, and more Nigerians are falling into poverty.”
Mr Abubakar argued that the current economic challenges were not unavoidable, but the result of what he called poorly implemented reforms without adequate protections for citizens.
He also accused the government of focusing on economic indicators while ignoring the daily realities faced by many Nigerians.
“While the government points to macroeconomic progress, Nigerians are facing hunger and uncertainty,” he said.
The former vice-president said economic reforms should be carefully planned and prioritise job creation, food security and support for small businesses.
He called for policies that would stabilise the economy and improve living conditions, rather than deepen hardship.
The Nigerian government has not yet responded to his comments.
Nigeria has faced rising inflation and cost-of-living pressures since a series of economic reforms were introduced in 2023, with officials arguing that the measures are necessary to stabilise the economy in the long term.
