President Bola Tinubu has blamed opposition parties for the hunger and poverty confronting Nigerians, saying his administration is working to reverse the situation.
Tinubu spoke on Saturday at the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign flag-off rally in Kaduna State, where he urged Nigerians to support his bid for a second term in the 2027 presidential election.
The President’s remarks came amid continued concerns over the rising cost of living and the impact of his administration’s economic reforms on households. 
Addressing the rally, Tinubu hit back at opposition politicians who have criticised his government over worsening living conditions, accusing them of creating the problems they now blame on his administration.
“I hear my opponents talking about hunger and poverty. Who created it? They did. They created hunger. They created poverty. We are trying to eradicate it,” Tinubu said.
The President said his administration was committed to restoring economic growth and creating greater opportunities for Nigerians.
He also accused opposition parties of offering Nigerians hatred rather than practical solutions to the country’s challenges.
“Our opponents are angry because they are playing you. They have nothing to offer you but hate. We have prosperity, consistency, growth, recovery and opportunity. I assure you,” he said.
Tinubu urged voters not to be misled by opposition campaign messages, calling on his supporters to remain vigilant ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Be careful. Watch them. Don’t let them lie to you,” he told the crowd.
The Kaduna rally marked the formal commencement of the APC’s campaign for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
The President also urged eligible Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and participate in the elections, asking them to vote for APC candidates at the presidential, governorship, National Assembly and state House of Assembly levels.
“Do you have your PVC? Do you have your PVC? Show your hands,” Tinubu asked supporters at the rally.
He commended APC governors for what he described as their performance in paying workers’ salaries and implementing development programmes across their states.
Tinubu expressed confidence that the policies of his administration would eventually deliver improved economic conditions and a better future for Nigerians.
The decision to flag off the APC campaign in Kaduna also highlights the strategic importance of northern Nigeria, particularly the North-West, to the party’s efforts to retain the presidency in 2027.
The region has a large voting population and is expected to play a significant role in determining the outcome of the presidential election.
Tinubu’s comments come against the backdrop of continuing debate over his administration’s economic policies, including the removal of petrol subsidies and reforms in the foreign exchange market.
While the Federal Government has defended the measures as necessary to stabilise the economy and promote long-term growth, many Nigerians continue to contend with rising food prices, transportation costs and other essential expenses.
