I don’t see the extent of hunger Nigerians complain about — Onanuga

Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, has dismissed claims that the level of hunger often portrayed by critics accurately reflects the situation across Nigeria, insisting that many citizens are benefiting from policies introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Tuesday, Onanuga said several government initiatives, including infrastructure projects, student loans and low-interest credit facilities for workers, have delivered tangible benefits to Nigerians.

According to him, newly completed road projects have improved travel experiences and reduced journey times in different parts of the country. He cited a recent trip from Ibadan to Lagos, where he was impressed by a newly constructed concrete road around the Ijebu-Ode axis.

Onanuga also pointed to the ongoing coastal highway project, saying it has significantly shortened travel time for residents commuting between Ajah and other parts of Lagos.

The presidential aide further highlighted the Federal Government’s student loan scheme and access to single-digit interest loans for civil servants, arguing that such interventions are helping many families cope with economic challenges.

While acknowledging that Nigerians are facing difficulties, Onanuga maintained that his personal interactions do not reflect the scale of hardship often described in public discourse.

“I don’t see the level of hunger people are talking about because I see people around me and I keep asking them questions about how they are adjusting and coping,” he said.

He added that public conversations about the economy have become dominated by assumptions that often overlook positive developments and government interventions.