‘If You Listen To A Nigerian Speak English, You’ll Need A Translator’, Kenyan President Ruto Throws Jibe At Tinubu

Kenyan President, William Ruto, has pushed back against recent remarks by President Bola Tinubu suggesting Nigerians were better off than some citizens of other African countries, triggering a wave of reactions across social media.

Recall that Tinubu had recently made comments targeting Kenyans during a visit to Bayelsa State, where he commissioned key infrastructure projects and defended his administration’s economic policies despite mounting concerns over rising fuel prices and cost of living.

“It is very important that we are honest with our people. Yes, I hear you from various angles of the economy. The fuel price is biting hard, but look around, let us thank God together, that you are better off. Listen to them in Kenya and other African countries and what they are going through. We will not look back. We will continue to find ways to ameliorate the sufferings of the vulnerable,” Tinubu had said.

But, in his response captured in a now-viral video, Ruto rejected the comparison, citing Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges, particularly persistent electricity shortages, while also taking a swipe at Nigerians’ spoken English language.

“Our education is good. Our English is good. We speak the best English in the world. If you listen to a Nigerian speak English, you’ll need a translator. We’ve the best human capital anywhere in the world,” Ruto said, drawing both criticism and amusement online.

The exchange came against the backdrop of broader economic pressures facing African nations, including rising fuel costs driven by global supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions, particularly around key oil transit routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.

Reactions on social media have been swift and divided, with many users criticising the tone of the exchange and calling for greater focus on addressing domestic economic challenges rather than engaging in cross-country comparisons.