Nigeria’s Economic Hardship: President Tinubu Blames Past Governments
President Bola Tinubu has acknowledged the widespread hardship in Nigeria, but instead of taking responsibility, he has blamed past governments for the country’s current economic woes. The President made the comments during a meeting with the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, led by former Senate President Ken Nnamani, in Abuja.
Tinubu expressed confidence that Nigeria can progress through collaboration and inclusiveness, citing the success of developed countries in achieving economic growth through these means. However, he also took a swipe at past governments, saying that they neglected their communities, forgot to educate their children, and failed to provide a decent standard of living.
The President’s remarks come as Nigeria grapples with economic hardship occasioned by the twin policies of fuel subsidy removal and naira floating. The removal of petrol subsidy has tripled the pump price of fuel, with a litre of petrol now selling at between N950 and N1,100 in Abuja. The naira has also hit an all-time low, trading above N1,500 to a dollar.
Inflation has also worsened under Tinubu, standing at 32.15 per cent despite easing for two consecutive times. This has made life difficult for many Nigerians, with former military Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar recently lamenting that the hardship in the land is getting out of control.
"The hardship in the land is getting out of control. People cannot afford three square meals, the issue of transportation, the hike in fuel price, the hike in school fees for the children and the lack of funds in everybody’s pocket are making life difficult for everybody," Abubakar said.
The Nigerian government’s response to the economic crisis has been widely criticized, with many calling for more effective solutions to address the suffering of the Nigerian people.
