President Bola Tinubu has criticised opposition parties over their comments on hunger and poverty in Nigeria, accusing them of contributing to the economic challenges they now blame on his administration.

Tinubu made the remarks on Saturday at the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign flag-off rally in Kaduna State, where he sought public support for his re-election bid in the 2027 general election.

“I hear my opponents talking about hunger and poverty. Who created it? They did. They created hunger. They created poverty. We are trying to eradicate it,” the President said.

He defended his administration’s economic policies, promising continued efforts to improve living conditions, create opportunities and strengthen the country’s economic recovery.

Tinubu maintained that his government was committed to delivering prosperity, growth and stability, while accusing opposition politicians of focusing on criticism rather than presenting practical solutions to the country’s challenges.

He urged Nigerians to support the APC at all levels of government, including the presidency, governorships, the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly.

The President also called on eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate in the forthcoming elections, stressing the importance of electoral participation in determining the country’s leadership.

Tinubu commended APC governors for their performance in their respective states, particularly in the payment of salaries, and urged party supporters to remain vigilant against misinformation during the campaign period.

The President’s remarks come amid continued debate over the impact of his administration’s economic reforms, including the removal of petrol subsidies and changes to foreign exchange policies.

While the Federal Government has argued that the reforms are intended to stabilise the economy and create conditions for long-term growth, opposition figures have criticised their effects on food prices, transportation costs and household purchasing power.

Opposition leaders have called on the administration to demonstrate how its economic policies are translating into tangible improvements in the daily lives of Nigerians.

Tinubu, however, urged voters to maintain confidence in his government, promising that its policies would continue to focus on economic recovery, expanded opportunities and improved welfare.

The Kaduna rally marked the formal launch of the APC’s campaign activities ahead of the 2027 presidential election.