A senior aide to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has pushed back against claims of discontent in the country’s northern region, asserting broad approval of the administration’s policies amid growing debates over governance and equity. Daniel Bwala, the president’s Special Adviser on Policy Communication, dismissed accusations by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, who recently argued that northern Nigerians felt marginalized under Tinubu’s leadership.
Speaking during a televised interview on Wednesday, Bwala emphasized that northern communities remain “extremely comfortable” with the government’s direction, citing efforts to address both immediate challenges and systemic issues. “He is solving problems in the long term and the problems of the moment,” Bwala said of Tinubu during the Channels Television program. “You can see conscious efforts by the president through various policies.” His remarks come as Nigeria grapples with economic strains, including inflation and currency volatility, which have sparked public frustration nationwide.
Lawal, a prominent political figure from the northeast, had earlier accused the administration of neglecting the North—a region historically pivotal to Nigerian politics—in policy decisions and appointments. The criticism reflects wider tensions over resource allocation and representation in Africa’s most populous nation, where regional dynamics often influence governance.
When questioned about widespread complaints over economic hardship, Bwala acknowledged public concerns but insisted progress was underway. “Things are already getting better,” he stated, distinguishing between genuine citizen grievances and what he described as opposition-driven narratives. “There is a separation between the outcry by Nigerians and the agenda cooked up by opposition politicians,” he added, claiming rival parties were “tortured” by the administration’s perceived successes.
The exchange highlights competing perspectives on Tinubu’s reforms, including fuel subsidy removals and foreign exchange adjustments, which officials argue will stabilize the economy but have exacerbated short-term costs for households. Northern Nigeria, home to over half the country’s population, faces acute challenges such as insecurity, poverty, and agricultural disruptions, amplifying scrutiny of federal initiatives.
While Bwala’s comments underscore the administration’s confidence in its strategy, analysts note that sustained discontent in the North could test political alliances ahead of future elections. The region’s support has been instrumental in Tinubu’s rise to power, making its perception of fairness in governance a critical factor for stability. As debates over equity and policy efficacy continue, the government’s ability to align its long-term vision with tangible improvements in living standards remains under international observation.
