Tinubu aide disputes hunger claims, touts infrastructure gains

Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to President Bola Tinubu on strategic communication, has pushed back against widespread public complaints about hunger and economic hardship, stating that the severity of suffering described in national discourse does not match what he observes on the ground. Speaking during a television interview, Onanuga defended the administration's economic programme and argued that citizens are benefiting from government initiatives rather than experiencing the deprivation often discussed publicly.

The presidential aide pointed to two main areas of achievement: ongoing infrastructure development and a student loan scheme. Onanuga specifically highlighted road construction projects as visible evidence of progress, recalling a recent trip between Ibadan and Lagos during which he observed newly completed concrete road surfaces in areas like the Ijebu-Ode corridor.

He characterised these improvements as tangible outcomes of the Tinubu administration's policies. Onanuga's remarks reflect a significant gap between the government's narrative on economic policy outcomes and the experiences reported by many Nigerians grappling with rising costs of living and reduced purchasing power.

The aide's assertion that he does not personally witness the hunger levels Nigerians regularly complain about stands in contrast to reports from across the country documenting food insecurity and economic distress. The defence of government performance comes as the administration continues rolling out various programmes meant to cushion citizens against economic pressure.

Beyond road infrastructure, the government has introduced student loan initiatives designed to ease access to education financing. These interventions form the core of the administration's case for the positive trajectory of its economic management.