The Presidency has issued a strong rebuttal to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s recent criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing the remarks as “vitriolic” and laden with misinformation.
In a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the Presidency accused Atiku of ignoring the significant strides made by the Tinubu administration over the past two years, particularly in stabilising the economy and instituting sweeping reforms.
“Every line of the blanket criticism reeks of hate,” Onanuga stated, adding that Atiku’s refusal to acknowledge the government’s achievements amounts to willful blindness. “Unless Atiku still lives in Dubai, he ought to admit that in just two years, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has embarked on the most ambitious economic and institutional reforms ever seen in decades.”
Citing major policy initiatives such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market, Onanuga reminded Nigerians that these reforms were long overdue and even featured in Atiku’s own campaign manifesto. “The responsibility to implement them fell on President Tinubu as the elected leader, and he did not shy away from it,” he said.
Onanuga further argued that the reforms, while painful, have stabilised government finances, reduced corruption, and positioned Nigeria as a more attractive destination for foreign investment. He highlighted the Nigerian Exchange’s growth, with the All-Share Index jumping from 50,000 to over 110,000 points, and market capitalisation rising to N69.4 trillion.
In response to Atiku’s claim that government policies are “anti-people,” Onanuga cited the administration’s efforts to cushion the impact of reforms, including the introduction of targeted social interventions, increased minimum wage (now up to N85,000 in some states), and expanded federal allocations to states.
He also debunked claims that education has become inaccessible, pointing to the Student Loan Scheme launched to support underprivileged students. “As of the last count, over 600,000 Nigerian students have benefitted from the loans, which cover school fees and living allowances,” he said, adding that the scheme does not cover elite institutions like Atiku’s American University in Yola.
Addressing accusations of excessive borrowing, Onanuga clarified that recent loan requests are modest and not aimed at funding the 2025 budget, as alleged. “The Finance Minister has made it clear that only about $1.2 billion is being considered, and the government has already paid off a $3.2 billion IMF loan,” he explained.
He noted that the Tinubu administration has made notable fiscal improvements, including increased revenue, a reduction in debt service-to-revenue ratio from 93% to 60%, and the discontinuation of Ways and Means deficit financing.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by reforms, Onanuga said the administration is working “vigorously” to alleviate hardship. “Inflation is easing, food production is rising, investments are returning, and the foundation for a more prosperous, just, and inclusive Nigeria is being laid,” he asserted.
Onanuga concluded by calling for a more responsible opposition. “Criticism must be elevated and constructive. When Atiku opposes policies, he should also offer solutions. Nigerians deserve opposition leaders who offer ideas, not just rhetoric.”
He assured that President Tinubu remains committed to democratic values, including freedom of speech, and will not silence dissenting voices.
“Let Nigerians judge this administration by its actions, not by the rhetoric of those who had their chances to lead and squandered them,” Onanuga said.