Atiku Accuses Tinubu of Exporting Wealth, Importing Hardship

On 15 September 2026, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized President Bola Tinubu's economic policies, claiming they export Nigeria's wealth in raw form while leaving citizens with higher prices and diminished purchasing power. Atiku, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, 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.

Conversely, unsold manufactured goods reached approximately ₦2.14 trillion, reflecting weak demand and high production costs. He stated that while the government celebrates trade surpluses, ordinary families struggle to afford basic necessities.

Atiku emphasized that exporting raw materials without processing them deprives Nigeria of potential profits, arguing that this approach undermines the country's economic growth. He also pointed out rising costs of fuel, electricity, and transportation, further exacerbating the financial strain on Nigerian families.