Tinubu Says Nigeria’s Hardship Predates His Reforms, Blames Decades of Low Productivity

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said the economic hardship facing millions of Nigerians did not begin with his administration’s reforms, but accumulated over decades as a result of low productivity, inadequate infrastructure and limited economic opportunities.

Tinubu made the remarks in his Independence Day address on October 1, 2026, while acknowledging that many Nigerians continue to struggle to afford basic necessities.

The President said families across the country were still dealing with difficulties paying for food, school fees, medical bills and transportation.

“Some Nigerian families still struggle today for the next meal, the next school fee, the next medical bill, or simply enough money to get to work,” Tinubu said.

He argued that the problems confronting these families predated the economic measures introduced by his administration since 2023.

“Their circumstances did not begin with the reforms of the last three years. Their struggle is the accumulated consequence of decades of low productivity, inadequate infrastructure, insufficient opportunity and institutions that too often failed those who needed them most.”

Tinubu said the government could not reverse problems that had accumulated over several generations within a single four-year term, but could change the direction of the economy.

“We cannot erase in four years what has accumulated over generations. But we can change its course.”

He said the objective of his administration was to build an economy capable of gradually lifting people out of poverty while protecting vulnerable Nigerians.

Tinubu has consistently defended the economic reforms introduced since he assumed office in May 2023, particularly the removal of petrol subsidy and changes to the foreign exchange system, describing them as necessary measures to address longstanding structural problems.

In previous statements, the President acknowledged that the reforms had imposed significant costs on households and businesses while arguing that they were necessary to stabilise public finances and create the foundation for longer-term growth.

The administration has also linked its economic programme to investments in infrastructure, agriculture, electricity, education, digital connectivity and job creation. In a May 2026 statement, Tinubu said the government was focused on ensuring that the benefits of economic recovery were felt more directly in the daily lives of Nigerians.

The President’s latest comments come as his administration continues to defend its reform programme while Nigerians contend with the effects of high living costs.

Tinubu said the government’s task was not only to pursue economic growth but also to create conditions in which Nigerians could access greater opportunities and eventually experience improvements in their living standards.