Senator Barau Tackles Osinbajo Over Nigeria’s Economic Outlook

Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has challenged former Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo’s assessment of Nigeria’s economy and democratic governance, insisting that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is addressing longstanding national challenges.

Barau spoke on Tuesday in Yola, Adamawa State, during a public lecture titled “Democracy and Development: Rethinking the Leadership Question,” organised to mark Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s 59th birthday. Osinbajo had cited Afrobarometer survey findings indicating widespread dissatisfaction with democracy and economic conditions across Africa, noting that while 64 per cent of Africans preferred democracy, only 38 per cent were satisfied with how it was working.

Responding to the presentation, Barau acknowledged the concerns raised but attributed part of the disconnect between government performance and public perception to inadequate communication with citizens. He cited the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), ongoing road projects and other infrastructure initiatives as evidence of efforts to expand opportunities and stimulate economic growth.

Barau also argued that global conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war and tensions in the Middle East, had contributed to rising energy prices and living costs. He urged government officials to improve public engagement and explain policy measures more effectively, while acknowledging that addressing Nigeria’s economic and development challenges would take time.