Former Vice-President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of making production increasingly expensive for Nigerian farmers and manufacturers.
Atiku said the government’s economic reforms were putting additional pressure on businesses and farmers already grappling with insecurity and rising operating costs.
His comments were contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communications of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council.
According to Mr Shaibu, Atiku said farmers were facing serious security challenges while manufacturers were struggling with high production costs, making it increasingly difficult for them to remain competitive.
The former vice-president criticised the impact of the administration’s economic policies, arguing that the reforms had increased the cost of doing business without providing sufficient relief for producers.
He said the situation was particularly concerning for farmers, who continue to face insecurity in parts of the country, and manufacturers dealing with higher costs of energy, raw materials, logistics and other inputs.
Atiku has repeatedly criticised the Tinubu administration’s economic policies, particularly the removal of the petrol subsidy and foreign exchange reforms, arguing that they have contributed to increased living and production costs.
The government, however, has maintained that its reforms are necessary to stabilise the economy, attract investment and place Nigeria on a stronger path to long-term growth.
The debate over the reforms comes as Nigerians continue to contend with high living costs, while businesses seek measures to reduce production expenses and improve the operating environment.
