Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga has emphasised that President Bola Tinubu is fully aware of Nigerians’ economic challenges and is committed to providing relief, rejecting claims that the President is indifferent to citizens’ struggles.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Onanuga dismissed social media nicknames such as “T-pain,” calling them mischievous.
“President Tinubu feels the pain of Nigerians and assures them that relief is on the horizon,” he said. “Some have resorted to calling him ‘T-pain’ out of mischief, but he is not that. He’s here to heal, not to hurt.”
Onanuga’s comments come amid criticism of Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies and unification of foreign exchange rates, which have led to significant rises in the cost of living, including food and fuel prices.
However, the Presidential aide argued that the policies are necessary to “repair the economy” rather than cause hardship.
“The President has never shied away from acknowledging that Nigerians are going through difficult times.
He is working tirelessly to provide relief and ensure that the nation moves towards a future of prosperity,” Onanuga said.
Despite inflation and soaring living costs, Onanuga pointed to signs of economic growth and increased revenues as indicators of a brighter outlook.
“This is a painful transition, but it’s part of a long-term strategy to stabilise and grow the economy,” he added.
In recent months, Nigerians have staged protests, particularly from the middle class, calling for a reversal of these economic policies.
Yet, Onanuga reiterated that the administration remains committed to reforms essential for sustainable growth.
