‘₦10,000 Can Feed a Family for Days’ — Tinubu’s Aide Sparks Debate on Cost of Living

 

‘₦10,000 Can Feed a Family for Days’ — Tinubu’s Aide Sparks Debate on Cost of Living

By Fatima Mohammed 

A statement by Tope Fasua, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Economic Affairs, has ignited widespread reactions following his claim that a modest Nigerian family can feed for several days with ₦10,000.

Fasua made the remark during a closed-door Coffee Hangout organised by the Kay Hikers Club in Abuja, where he addressed concerns about Nigeria’s rising cost of living and declining purchasing power. The discussion reportedly became intense after a participant challenged government officials on the increasing difficulty many Nigerians face in affording basic necessities, particularly food.

Responding, Fasua acknowledged the surge in prices but insisted that households must adopt more disciplined financial habits. According to him, Nigerians need to align their spending with their earnings and adjust to prevailing economic realities.

“A modest family will feed for several days with ₦10,000,” he said, while emphasising the need for prudent resource management.

He further explained that individuals can make cost-effective decisions by buying food items directly from local markets and preparing meals at home. Drawing from personal experience, Fasua noted that he frequently visits markets such as Utako and Wuse in Abuja, where he observes price trends and interacts with traders.

“You will know how to cut your coat according to your cloth. I go to the market too. I have customers there. You can buy foodstuff and cook at home,” he added.

The presidential aide also stressed that government cannot fully shield citizens from economic challenges, urging Nigerians to recalibrate their expectations. “I know things are expensive, more expensive than before. But if we want sensation, government will never win,” he stated.

However, his comments have triggered mixed reactions across the country, particularly on social media platforms, where many Nigerians questioned the practicality of feeding a family on ₦10,000 amid current market realities.

Critics argue that the statement reflects a disconnect between policymakers and the everyday struggles of citizens, citing the rising cost of staple foods, transportation, and other essentials. Some observers also pointed out that inflationary pressures and currency fluctuations have significantly eroded household purchasing power in recent months.

Economic analysts note that while financial discipline is important, structural issues such as inflation, supply chain disruptions, and insecurity in food-producing regions continue to drive up prices, making it difficult for low- and middle-income earners to cope.

The controversy highlights ongoing concerns about economic policy communication and public perception, especially at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with the effects of subsidy removal, exchange rate volatility, and broader economic reforms introduced under the current administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

As debates continue, the remarks have once again brought attention to the widening gap between policy expectations and lived realities, raising questions about how best to address the economic challenges facing households across the country.