Onanuga Under Fire After New York Times’ Rejoinder On Dead Economy

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has come under fire after he reacted to a report published in the New York Times on June 11 which criticized the Nigerian economy as facing the worst trajectory in a generation.

In a statement released on X by the presidency on Sunday, titled, ‘Nigeria Confronts Its Worst Economic Crisis in a Generation’, Onanuga countered the foreign publication, claiming that it reflected the typical predetermined, reductionist, derogatory and denigrating way foreign media establishments reported African countries for several decades.

Onanuga describing the report made by New York Time Report as  ‘misleading’ said,  “As a respected economist in our country once put it, Tinubu inherited a dead economy. The economy was bleeding and needed quick surgery to avoid being plunged into the abyss, as happened in Zimbabwe and Venezuela.”

For more information on the statement, click the link below to read👇

The statement which has gone viral, quickly gathered over 1000 tweets by early Monday morning, reflecting sharp reactions from Nigerians. See some reactions gathered my gwg.ng:

DISTINGUISHED KPMG Link…said, “See the New York Times article that Bayo Onanuga is leading the Agbado army to fight against. We wouldn’t have known had the veteran not started the fight back.”

Queen Bee said, “You go explain taya…”

@iamhistor said, “You people are just comfortable lying shamelessly. Rejoinder or not, the existing realities on ground shows that New York Times is right.”

@EvansOchinyere said, “Dear Mr. Onanuga, Thank you for your detailed rejoinder regarding the New York Times article on Nigeria’s economic crisis. While it is true that President Tinubu inherited a challenging economic situation, your response seems to overlook several critical issues and fails to fully address the concerns raised in the article.

“Firstly, while the removal of the fuel subsidy and unification of exchange rates are significant steps, these policies have led to severe short-term hardships for ordinary Nigerians. The report highlighted the immediate impact on the cost of living, which your rejoinder seems to downplay. The government’s efforts to stabilize the economy and address food inflation are commendable, but many Nigerians continue to struggle with skyrocketing prices and decreased purchasing power.

“Moreover, your response emphasizes potential long-term benefits and external loans, yet it does not adequately address the pressing daily realities faced by citizens. The trade surplus and increased investor confidence are positive signs, but these macroeconomic indicators do not necessarily translate into improved living standards for the average Nigerian.”

Evageline added, “The comparison to economic crises in other countries, while relevant, does not mitigate the unique challenges Nigeria faces nor justify the apparent lack of immediate relief measures for those most affected by the economic policies. 

“The administration’s strategies might be well-intentioned, but without swift and effective measures to alleviate the burden on the populace, the credibility and trust in the government’s ability to manage the economy will remain under scrutiny.

“In summary, while the steps taken by President Tinubu’s administration may be necessary for long-term stability, there needs to be a more balanced approach that also addresses the urgent needs of Nigerians who are currently bearing the brunt of these economic reforms.”

@Dice Of Truthgto said, “A foreign media outlet needs to tell you that 5x-ing the cost of living will cause your people hardship.

“That still discussing wage increase over a year later is shire wickedness. You inherited bad economy, but it didn’t stop you from making it worse.

“Or pushing Nitrillion on a project with no immediate impact on priority problems. One day, you will answer for your wickedness to the Nigerians you swore to serve. A year on, the president refuses to talk to Nigerian media. Continue.”

@felimek said, “Oga you will explain tire, no evidence. The economy was destroyed by Tinubu and the world knows that, so stop talking as if you understand anything about economy. Government propaganda that is still paying subsidy uptil today but always comes out to deny it. Shame on every one still supporting this APC.”

@Ugowil said, “It isn’t a jaundiced report but true picture of what a fake graduate, a fake certified public accountant, perjury master and a drug baron has turned Nigerian economy into.. Is the economy healthy old tribal bigot?”

Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us

 And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG