Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, has said he does not observe the widespread level of hunger being publicly complained about by many Nigerians, noting that his personal interactions and observations suggest many citizens are coping and benefiting from government policies.
Speaking during a recent appearance on Arise Television, Onanuga defended the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms, acknowledging challenges while highlighting positive interventions such as the significant increase in the minimum wage.
“I’m a Nigerian. I have people working for me privately. I don’t see the level of hunger people are talking about because I see them, and I keep asking them questions: how are things, how are they adjusting, what are the problems?” Onanuga stated.
He pointed to the government’s decision to raise the minimum wage by more than 100%, from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, as a key measure to ease the cost of living. Onanuga also emphasized ongoing infrastructure projects, access to loans for businesses and states, and other reforms aimed at long-term economic stability and growth.
While admitting that economic hardships exist due to reforms like fuel subsidy removal and forex liberalization, the Presidential Aide maintained that these measures are necessary for sustainable development and that many Nigerians are gradually adjusting.
Onanuga urged critics to focus on the broader picture of government achievements rather than amplifying negative narratives, calling for patience as the positive impacts of the reforms continue to unfold across the country.
The Presidency remains focused on implementing policies that will deliver lasting prosperity, food security, and improved livelihoods for all Nigerians.