The Presidency has strongly criticized the Pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, for claiming that President Bola Tinubu's administration has failed Nigerians after two years in office.

Afenifere had earlier alleged that President Tinubu's performance has witnessed regression in human development, economic mismanagement, and democratic backsliding.

In response, the Presidency described Afenifere's position as "a jaundiced view, echoing the view of opposition politicians, one of whom the group supported in the 2023 election."

Presidency Defends Economic Reforms

The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, issued a statement defending the administration's economic policies and achievements.

"The statement from a factional Afenifere group raises serious concerns about a penchant and deliberate attempt to find faults and trade in deceit instead of objectivity," Dare stated.

He added that "the group has found it challenging to accept that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria's comeback story is firmly underway."

Economic Gains Highlighted

Addressing specific criticisms about economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira, Dare provided data to counter Afenifere's claims of "unmitigated sufferings."

"The removal of the fuel subsidy, announced on May 29, 2023, saved the government over $10 billion in 2023 alone, reducing fiscal strain and redirecting funds to other sectors," he explained.

The presidential spokesperson further noted that unifying the foreign exchange market and the naira's floatation aimed to address distortions in the currency market, which has boosted foreign reserves to $38.1 billion by 2024 and achieved a trade surplus of N18.86 trillion for the country.

According to Dare, a balanced assessment based on available data reveals a more objective and progressive picture, with significant achievements amid the challenges expected from a country with decades-old problems.

The Presidency maintains that despite short-term difficulties, the economic reforms implemented by the Tinubu administration are necessary for Nigeria's long-term prosperity and sustainable development.