Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, accusing them of deepening poverty in Nigeria. Speaking at the Financial Times Africa Summit 2026 in London, Obasanjo pointed to the sharp depreciation of the naira as a key factor. He argued that the devaluation has increased the cost of living for ordinary citizens.
Obasanjo specifically mentioned the impact of the naira’s decline on everyday expenses. He stated that the reforms, including the devaluation, have made it harder for families to afford basic necessities. The former leader emphasized that the economic policies have not delivered the promised stability or growth.
This criticism comes amid growing public dissatisfaction with the current administration’s economic management. Inflation has remained high, and unemployment continues to be a pressing issue. Obasanjo’s remarks highlight a growing divide between the government’s economic strategy and the lived experiences of many Nigerians. His comments add to the ongoing debate about the effectiveness of recent economic reforms.
