Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Economic Affairs, Tope Fasua, has said that the living conditions of Nigeria’s poorest citizens are beginning to improve, attributing the development to the Federal Government’s economic reforms and social intervention programmes.
Fasua made the remarks while commenting on the state of the economy, arguing that although many Nigerians continue to face economic hardship, the government’s policies are gradually yielding positive results, particularly for the most vulnerable segments of the population.
According to the presidential aide, ongoing reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration are aimed at laying the foundation for long-term economic stability, improving livelihoods, and expanding opportunities for citizens.
He acknowledged that the government’s economic measures, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market, initially imposed significant hardships on many households. However, he maintained that the reforms were necessary to address long-standing structural challenges in the economy.
Fasua said recent interventions by the Federal Government, including targeted social support programmes, investments in agriculture, and initiatives designed to stimulate economic growth, are beginning to have a positive impact on low-income Nigerians.
“Things are getting better for very poor people in Nigeria,” he said, expressing confidence that the benefits of the administration’s policies would become more evident as implementation continues.
The presidential adviser added that the government remains committed to reducing poverty, creating jobs, stabilising prices, and improving access to essential services through sustained economic reforms.
His comments come at a time when many Nigerians continue to grapple with rising inflation, increased food prices, and the higher cost of transportation and other basic necessities. Economic analysts have noted that while some macroeconomic indicators have shown signs of improvement, many households are yet to experience significant relief from the rising cost of living.
The Tinubu administration has consistently defended its reform agenda, arguing that difficult policy decisions taken since assuming office are intended to strengthen the economy, attract investment, and place the country on a path to sustainable growth.
Meanwhile, critics of the government’s economic policies contend that the reforms have worsened living conditions for many Nigerians, citing persistent inflation and declining purchasing power. They have called for stronger social protection measures and more immediate interventions to cushion the impact of the reforms on vulnerable households.
The contrasting views reflect the broader national debate over the effectiveness of the government’s economic strategy, with supporters pointing to anticipated long-term gains and critics emphasizing the immediate challenges confronting millions of Nigerians.
As the administration continues to implement its economic agenda, the extent to which the reforms translate into improved living standards remains a key issue in Nigeria’s public discourse.
