Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised concerns over rising poverty levels in Nigeria, criticising the economic policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following a recent World Bank report.

In a statement issued in Abuja by his aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said the report reflects the worsening hardship faced by Nigerians, noting that poverty has risen to about 63 per cent.

He argued that the situation is a direct result of what he described as poorly designed and harshly implemented policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the devaluation of the naira without adequate safety measures.

According to him, the rising cost of living, increasing food prices, and struggles faced by small businesses highlight a disconnect between government policies and the realities of ordinary citizens.

“At over 60 per cent poverty rate, this is not reform; it is regression on a monumental scale,” he said, adding that leadership should focus on improving citizens’ welfare rather than defending failing policies.

The former vice president called for a shift in approach, recommending carefully sequenced reforms, stronger social protection systems, and policies that prioritise job creation, food security, and economic stability.

The criticism follows the latest Nigeria Development Update by the World Bank, which showed poverty rising from 56 per cent in 2023 to 63 per cent in 2025, affecting an estimated 140 million Nigerians.

Despite a decline in inflation figures reported by the National Bureau of Statistics, the report noted that high price levels continue to erode purchasing power and worsen living conditions across the country.