Table of Contents
- PDP's Criticism of the 2026 Budget
- Economic Hardships Faced by Nigerians
- Questioning Economic Growth Figures
- Concerns Over Security Allocations
- Issues with Budget Execution
- Call for Transparency and Accountability
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2026 budget, labeling it a “budget of consolidated renewed sufferings” for the Nigerian populace.
The opposition party stated that the budget, presented to the National Assembly under the theme “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity,” obscures the economic difficulties experienced by ordinary citizens.
In a statement issued by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the party emphasized that despite the government's claims of stabilizing the economy, Nigerians continue to endure increasing poverty and hardship.
“Over 30.9 percent of Nigerians live below the international extreme poverty line,” the PDP remarked, referencing the 2025 World Bank Poverty & Equity Brief.
The party also expressed skepticism regarding the reported economic growth figure of 3.98 percent highlighted by President Tinubu, suggesting that it does not translate into improved living conditions.
“While the President celebrates a 3.98 percent growth rate, the reality for Nigerians is severe hunger, a high cost of living, and other metrics of economic distress,” the statement noted.
The party further contrasted this with the 6.87 percent growth recorded in 2013 under the previous administration, which was largely driven by non-oil sectors such as agriculture and trade.
Regarding security allocations in the 2026 budget, the PDP acknowledged the funding but emphasized that allocation alone is inadequate.
“We demand effective and transparent execution to ensure that security funding results in modern equipment, sufficient ammunition, enhanced intelligence, and improved welfare for security personnel,” the party stated.
Additionally, the PDP raised concerns about the delayed execution of the 2024 capital budget, which has been extended into December 2025 while the 2025 budget remains active.
“The simultaneous operation of different budgets undermines fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability,” the statement cautioned.
The opposition party called for increased transparency and accountability in government finances, asserting that these are essential for public trust and effective governance under the Tinubu administration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PDP's position on President Tinubu's 2026 budget?
The PDP criticizes the budget as a “budget of consolidated renewed sufferings,” claiming it masks the economic hardships faced by Nigerians.
What are the economic conditions in Nigeria according to the PDP?
The PDP notes that over 30.9 percent of Nigerians live below the international extreme poverty line, indicating a rise in poverty and economic hardship.
What concerns does the PDP have regarding security funding?
The PDP welcomes security funding but insists that effective and transparent execution is necessary to ensure it leads to improvements in security operations.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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