Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the reported allocation of ₦22.15 billion for palace-related projects, questioning the government’s spending priorities amid the economic challenges facing Nigerians.
Atiku, a leading opposition figure, reportedly raised concerns about the decision to commit billions of naira to the projects when many citizens continue to struggle with rising living costs and economic pressures.
In his reaction, the former vice president was quoted as saying, “National treasury is not Bourdillon’s vault,” a statement widely interpreted as a criticism of the president’s approach to the management of public resources.
The comment has sparked fresh debate over government expenditure and the need for greater accountability in the use of taxpayers’ money. Atiku’s position suggests that public funds should be directed towards addressing pressing national challenges and improving the welfare of citizens.
Nigeria has continued to experience economic difficulties, with inflation, unemployment and high living costs placing pressure on households and businesses. Against this backdrop, concerns over government spending have become a major part of national discourse.
However, supporters of the Tinubu administration may argue that government-funded projects are part of broader development plans and that spending decisions should be assessed based on their intended purpose and long-term impact.
The controversy also comes as Atiku continues to criticise the Federal Government’s economic policies. The former vice president has repeatedly called for greater transparency in public spending and more effective management of the country’s resources.
President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023 and has since implemented several major economic reforms, including the removal of the petrol subsidy and changes to the foreign exchange system. The government has defended these measures as necessary steps towards rebuilding the economy, although they have also attracted criticism over their immediate impact on Nigerians.
With the 2027 general elections approaching, public spending and economic management are expected to remain key issues in political debates. Atiku’s latest criticism further highlights the growing contest between the government and opposition over how Nigeria’s limited resources should be allocated.
