Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he described as worsening economic conditions for Nigerian workers, marking the 2026 Workers’ Day with a strongly worded statement.
In the press release issued on Thursday, Atiku said this year’s celebration should be a moment of reflection rather than celebration, stressing that Nigerian workers are grappling with economic hardship driven by government policies.
“I write not with celebration in my heart, but with grief… grief for the Nigerian worker who was promised renewed hope and received instead renewed hardship.”
He argued that the administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda has failed to translate into improved living conditions, claiming that workers across sectors from civil servants to artisans have become the “primary victims” of economic reforms.
On fuel subsidy removal, Atiku acknowledged the policy as necessary but criticised its execution, describing it as abrupt and lacking safeguards.
“The removal of the fuel subsidy was a necessary step, recklessly executed… with no preparation, no safety nets, no cushioning mechanisms.”
He added that while the policy freed up significant government revenue, Nigerians have not felt its benefits.
“Trillions were ostensibly saved, but nothing gained by the people.”
The former vice president also raised concerns over the reported allocation of funds to major infrastructure projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, alleging lack of transparency and due process.
Addressing currency reforms, Atiku said the decision to float the naira worsened inflation and eroded workers’ purchasing power.
“For the Nigerian worker earning a salary denominated in Naira, this collapse was devastating.”
He further criticised ongoing tax reforms, arguing that increasing taxes during economic hardship places additional burden on struggling citizens.
“Increasing taxes during an economic crisis… is not fiscal responsibility. It is an act of cruelty masquerading as policy.”
Atiku also expressed concern over Nigeria’s rising debt profile, stating that increased borrowing has not translated into improved infrastructure or public services.
“Increased revenues plus increased borrowing should translate into increased development… the arithmetic simply does not add up.”
Reiterating his alternative economic vision, the former presidential candidate referenced his proposed $10 billion stimulus plan, which he said would have created jobs and boosted economic growth.
In his message to Nigerian workers, he acknowledged their resilience amid economic challenges.
“You are not invisible. Your suffering is not a statistic. It is real… and a direct consequence of policy choices.”
He concluded by calling for people-focused governance and renewed commitment to improving workers’ welfare.
“The Nigerian worker deserves genuine renewal… not as a slogan, but as a lived reality.”