"Borrowing Without Results!” — Atiku Blasts Tinubu Over Nigeria’s Rising Debt Crisis

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has intensified criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, accusing the federal government of piling up massive debts without improving the living conditions of ordinary Nigerians.

Atiku, reacting to recent comments from the Presidency defending Nigeria’s borrowing profile, described the government’s growing debt culture as “reckless” and disconnected from the realities facing citizens across the country. He argued that governance should not be measured by the amount of loans acquired but by improvements in security, food affordability, employment opportunities, and the general quality of life.

The former presidential candidate claimed that despite repeated borrowing for infrastructure and economic reforms, millions of Nigerians continue to struggle with rising food prices, worsening insecurity, unemployment, and economic hardship. According to him, many families now live in fear as kidnappings and violent attacks continue to spread across different parts of the country.

Atiku further alleged that ransom payments have become part of household budgeting for many Nigerians, comparing it to routine expenses such as school fees and rent. He blamed the situation on what he described as failed economic and security policies under the current administration.

The criticism also follows reports that the federal government is seeking another major loan facility from the World Bank. Atiku warned that the country risks sliding deeper into debt dependency if the borrowing trend continues without visible impact on infrastructure, electricity supply, job creation, and economic growth. He described the situation as “economic vandalism,” insisting that debt alone does not translate to national development.

According to Atiku, ordinary Nigerians are yet to feel the benefits of the loans obtained over the past few years, as many businesses continue to battle high energy costs while insecurity and inflation remain major concerns nationwide.

The latest remarks add to the growing political tension ahead of the 2027 general elections, as opposition figures continue to mount pressure on the Tinubu administration over the economy, security, and governance. Political observers say the debate over Nigeria’s debt profile is likely to remain a major issue in the country’s political discourse in the months ahead.