By Sabiu Abdullahi
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has said that living conditions in Nigeria have become more expensive than in Kenya, despite differences in fuel prices.
His remarks followed a statement by President Bola Tinubu during a visit to Bayelsa State, where the President said petrol is cheaper in Nigeria than in Kenya and several other African countries.
In a response issued on Saturday through his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the comparison as ‘shallow’. He said it does not reflect the real economic situation faced by Nigerians.
He questioned the focus on fuel prices alone as a measure of economic wellbeing. He argued that factors such as income levels, purchasing power, and general cost of living provide a more accurate picture.
According to the statement, Nigeria remains more expensive when overall living costs are considered, even though petrol prices may appear lower.
“Yes, petrol prices in Nigeria may appear lower than in countries like Kenya or South Africa. But this comparison collapses instantly when placed against the backdrop of economic realities.
“Nigeria today is more expensive to live in than Kenya, with the average cost of living significantly higher, despite lower fuel prices.”
Atiku also pointed to differences in earnings between both countries. He said Kenya’s minimum wage is significantly higher than Nigeria’s.
“More alarming is the collapse in earning power. Kenya’s GDP per capita is nearly double that of Nigeria, and a minimum wage earner in Nairobi takes home the equivalent of about N170,000—more than twice Nigeria’s N70,000,” he said.
Available data shows that petrol currently sells between N1,290 and N1,350 per litre in Nigeria, while prices in Kenya exceed N1,800 per litre.
The exchange highlights ongoing debate over the impact of economic policies and the rising cost of living in Nigeria.
