Introduction
Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office, Nigeria has faced one of the most difficult socio-economic periods in its modern history. For many citizens, the daily struggle to afford food, fuel, and basic necessities has become unbearable. What was once hope for reform now feels like hardship without relief.
This article explores the key issues fueling public frustration — from economic collapse to insecurity — and why many believe Tinubu's administration could go down as the most difficult in Nigeria's democratic era.
1. Economic Mismanagement and the Twin Shocks
The Fuel Subsidy Shock
Tinubu's first major policy announcement — "The fuel subsidy is gone" — came without a concrete cushioning plan. Overnight, the price of fuel tripled, transportation costs spiked, and inflation surged.
The Naira Devaluation
Soon after, the government unified the exchange rate — effectively devaluing the Naira. Though meant to attract investors, it instead triggered a freefall of the currency. Imports became more expensive, and inflation — now over 33% — hit a 28-year high.
The result? Salaries remain stagnant while prices of goods soar. The average Nigerian's purchasing power has collapsed.
2. The Cost-of-Living Crisis
Inflation is not just a number — it's a human tragedy.
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Food prices are at record highs. A bag of rice now costs more than the minimum wage in many states.
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Families are skipping meals, struggling to survive.
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Small businesses — Nigeria's biggest employers — are shutting down under the weight of fuel and raw material costs.
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Workers' wages have not kept pace, and the new minimum wage debate remains unresolved.
The pain cuts across all sectors, turning daily living into a battle for survival.
3. Rising Insecurity and Fear
Security challenges that predated Tinubu have intensified:
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Kidnappings have become rampant — even around Abuja, the nation's capital.
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Bandits and insurgents continue to terrorize the North.
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Mass abductions of students persist.
Despite campaign promises, the administration has not unveiled any new or effective strategy. The much-discussed "state police" idea remains only talk.
4. The Fuel Price Paradox
Nigerians were told that removing subsidy would lead to long-term benefits — better infrastructure, stable fuel supply, and investment in public welfare.
Yet:
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The savings remain opaque.
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There are no visible improvements in roads, healthcare, or education.
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Fuel scarcity still resurfaces periodically.
In essence, Nigerians now pay more for less.
5. Why Tinubu's Administration Faces Harsh Judgment
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Shock Without Safety Nets – Major reforms were executed abruptly, inflicting pain without immediate cushioning.
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Eroded Public Trust – With the 2023 election still controversial, hardship has only deepened national division.
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Broken Reputation of Competence – Tinubu's image as a "master strategist" contrasts sharply with the ongoing economic turmoil.
Widespread Suffering – Every region and class feels the pinch — an equal-opportunity crisis.
🧵 THREAD: Why Many Nigerians Believe the Tinubu Administration Is the Most Difficult in History 👇
1️⃣ When President Tinubu said, "Fuel subsidy is gone," on Day One — Nigeria's economy shook.
Fuel price tripled. Transport costs exploded. And inflation skyrocketed.
2️⃣ Then came the Naira devaluation.
The currency free-fell, imports became unaffordable, and inflation hit a 28-year high — now over 33%.
3️⃣ Food inflation is above 40%.
A bag of rice now costs more than the minimum wage. Families are skipping meals. Businesses are shutting down.
4️⃣ Wages? Still stagnant.
While everything else — fuel, food, rent — keeps rising.
5️⃣ Security? Still broken.
Kidnapping, banditry, and insurgency continue across the country. Even Abuja isn't safe anymore.
6️⃣ The promised benefits of subsidy removal — better roads, healthcare, jobs — remain unseen.
No transparency. No relief.
7️⃣ Tinubu was expected to bring competence and structure.
But one year later, many Nigerians are facing the toughest times of their lives.
8️⃣ It's not just bad policy — it's shock without therapy.
No safety nets. No cushioning. No clear communication.
9️⃣ Nigerians are asking: Was the pain necessary? And where are the gains?
🔟 Until real reforms touch the people — not just the numbers — this administration will be remembered for hardship, not hope.
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