Former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, has countered President Bola Tinubu’s claim that fuel is cheaper in Nigeria, arguing that the broader economic reality tells a different story.
Reacting through his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the comparison as “shallow” and misleading, stressing that focusing only on fuel prices ignores key indicators like income levels and cost of living.
“Yes, petrol prices in Nigeria may appear lower than in countries like Kenya or South Africa. But this comparison collapses instantly when placed against the backdrop of economic realities.
“Nigeria today is more expensive to live in than Kenya, with the average cost of living significantly higher, despite lower fuel prices.”
He further highlighted the disparity in earnings, noting that Kenya’s minimum wage is significantly higher than Nigeria’s.
“More alarming is the collapse in earning power. Kenya’s GDP per capita is nearly double that of Nigeria, and a minimum wage earner in Nairobi takes home the equivalent of about N170,000—more than twice Nigeria’s N70,000,” he said.
The remarks come amid ongoing debate over rising living costs, with fuel prices in Nigeria currently ranging between N1,290 and N1,350 per litre, compared to over N1,800 in Kenya.