The Nigerian Presidency has responded to criticisms from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar regarding rising hunger in the country, asserting that the nation is making steady economic progress under President Bola Tinubu. In a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, the presidency described Atiku’s comments as “cheap talk” disconnected from Nigeria’s current economic trajectory.

According to Onanuga, recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) contradicts Atiku’s assertions about hunger and economic instability. The NBS reported a decline in headline inflation for the fifth consecutive month, as well as a record trade surplus with non-oil exports nearly matching crude oil exports at a 48:52 ratio. Additionally, Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves have increased to nearly $42 billion, up from $32 billion when President Tinubu took office.

The presidency also highlighted improvements in revenue, enabling states to pay salaries and pensions on time while funding capital and social projects. Onanuga stated that the level of financial stability under President Tinubu has not been seen in years, and attributed the current challenges to economic mismanagement during the PDP years when Atiku was Vice President.

Onanuga emphasized that President Tinubu and his team are working to correct past errors with bold reforms, and that Nigerians can see and feel the positive changes in the country. The presidency noted that while Atiku and his allies may choose to ignore the gains, the progress being made under President Tinubu’s leadership is evident.

The exchange between the presidency and Atiku Abubakar comes as Nigeria continues to navigate economic challenges. The country’s economic progress has been a subject of debate, with some criticizing the government’s handling of the economy and others pointing to signs of improvement. As the debate continues, the presidency remains confident in the country’s economic trajectory under President Tinubu’s leadership.