Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress candidate Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Tinubu's administration of failing to support domestic farmers and manufacturers. Atiku claimed that despite promises to boost the economy, the government is allowing Nigeria to export raw materials without sufficiently developing domestic processing jobs. This approach has resulted in increased production costs and a significant decline in agricultural trade. Atiku's statement was released through Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication for the ADC Presidential Campaign Council.
According to Atiku, trade figures show a decline in agricultural trade from a surplus of ₦740.27 billion in the first half of 2025 to a deficit of ₦56.13 billion in the first half of 2026—a reversal of ₦796.40 billion within a year. Agricultural exports decreased by 33.3%, outpacing the decline in imports. Atiku argued that this decline is a result of the government's failure to support domestic farmers and manufacturers, leading to increased production costs and decreased competitiveness.
Atiku called for accountability, stating that the excuse that Nigerians simply imported too much will not stand. He stressed that farmers need real support, stating that benefits cannot come from mere promises. “Farmers cannot cultivate promises. Manufacturers cannot power factories with speeches,” he added. Atiku emphasized that the government needs to provide practical support to farmers and manufacturers to help them compete in the global market.
Atiku proposed that Nigeria should retain more value by processing its leading agricultural exports, such as cashew nuts and cocoa beans, domestically. He argued that this approach would help create jobs and increase the country's revenue. Atiku also suggested a production subsidy for petroleum products refined in Nigeria to help keep production jobs and value in the country.
Atiku condemned the Tinubu administration’s approach, saying it has resulted in increased production costs while erroneously being labelled as reform. “He cannot claim credit for every favourable statistic while disowning a ₦796.40 billion reversal when the figures turn against him,” he noted. Atiku emphasized that the government needs to take responsibility for its actions and provide practical solutions to the country's economic challenges.
Atiku concluded that the government is failing Nigerians by exporting raw materials while they pay high prices for finished goods. He stated, “A government that cannot turn our resources into affordable products and decent jobs has failed the people it was elected to serve.” Atiku's statement highlights the need for the government to re-evaluate its agricultural policy and provide more support to domestic farmers and manufacturers.
The criticism from Atiku comes at a time when Nigeria is facing significant economic challenges, including high inflation and unemployment. The country's agricultural sector has the potential to be a major driver of economic growth, but it needs more support from the government. Atiku's proposals aim to provide practical relief to farmers and manufacturers, rather than ineffective schemes.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar criticizes President Bola Tinubu's administration for prioritizing food imports over domestic farmers.
- Agricultural trade in Nigeria has declined significantly, with a reversal of ₦796.40 billion within a year.
- Atiku proposes that Nigeria should retain more value by processing its leading agricultural exports domestically.
