Atiku Accuses Tinubu of Economic Mismanagement in Nigeria

Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress and former Vice President of Nigeria from 1999 to 2007, accused President Bola Tinubu's administration of undermining the Nigerian economy by exporting raw materials instead of finished products. In a statement released on September 15, 2026, by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku noted that Nigeria's raw material exports surged by 106% from ₦1.86 trillion in the first half of 2025 to ₦3.84 trillion in the first half of 2026.

He highlighted that unsold manufactured goods reached approximately ₦2.14 trillion, indicating a decline in consumer demand. Atiku criticized the government for allowing the export of basic raw materials like cocoa beans and hides, which diminishes the economic value retained in Nigeria.

He attributed rising costs in fuel, electricity, and credit to the struggles faced by manufacturers and consumers. Atiku proposed an Economic Recovery Plan aimed at reducing production costs and supporting young entrepreneurs with a $10 billion financing program.