Gowon Praises Tinubu’s Leadership as APC Counters Opposition Poverty Claims

Former military head of state, General Yakubu Gowon and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Gowon Praises Tinubu’s Leadership as APC Counters Opposition Poverty Claims

Former military head of state, General Yakubu Gowon, has praised President Bola Tinubu for his performance across key sectors of governance, describing the administration’s efforts as broad and impactful. Gowon, who ruled Nigeria between 1966 and 1975, made the remarks after paying a courtesy visit to Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Speaking to reporters, Gowon said: “I came to see him and to thank him for all the good works that he’s doing for the country. We have to look at all the good work that the President is doing and the progress that Nigeria is making economically and otherwise.” He added that Tinubu appears to be addressing national challenges “all round”, spanning political, economic, social, and security sectors.

On security, Gowon acknowledged the complexity of Nigeria’s situation but expressed confidence that the government is taking necessary steps to ensure the nation’s safety and stability. “The major problem that we have today, the security area, he’s doing everything to deal with those for the good of all Nigeria,” he said, emphasising that leadership requires balancing multiple priorities simultaneously.

Gowon also expressed optimism about the government’s handling of current national challenges, stating: “The government is handling it the best it can to ensure that Nigeria, in the end, achieves the peace that it deserves, that it requires and it deserves.” His endorsement reflects his standing as a respected elder statesman and a voice of national reconciliation.

APC Fires Back at ADC Over Poverty Claims

On the same day, the All Progressives Congress (APC) responded to claims by the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) that Nigeria’s poverty rate had surged to 63 per cent, calling the assertions misleading. The ADC based its claims on an Agora Policy dialogue report, which indicated a rise from 49% to 63%.

APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka dismissed the opposition’s claims, describing them as ignorant of President Tinubu’s ongoing economic reforms. He defended the administration’s fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange harmonisation, stating that these reforms were necessary to correct long-standing structural issues and curb corruption and border smuggling.

Morka acknowledged that the reforms had caused short-term hardship but emphasised positive economic indicators under Tinubu’s leadership. These include 4.4% economic growth in 2025, projected 5.5% expansion this fiscal year, foreign reserves surpassing $50 billion, declining inflation rates, and non-oil exports exceeding $6 billion. The APC also highlighted ongoing social protection initiatives, such as cash transfers, student loans, and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) projects, aimed at cushioning citizens while strengthening household resilience.

The party accused the ADC of offering no tangible policy alternatives, asserting that Nigerians are too discerning to be swayed by empty opposition attacks.

Gowon’s endorsement and APC’s defense of Tinubu’s reforms underscore the administration’s efforts to navigate complex economic, security, and social challenges, while responding to criticisms from opposition parties.