Tinubu Treks to Office, Hasn't Left Nigeria in Three Months – NRS Chairman Defends President Amid Cost-of-Governance Debate

Tinubu Treks to Office, Hasn't Left Nigeria in Three Months – NRS Chairman Defends President Amid Cost-of-Governance Debate

Adedeji made the comments during an interview on Channels Television's Sunday Politics programme, where host Seun Okinbaloye questioned whether he was not concerned about the perception that government officials "live large and in luxury" while many Nigerians face poverty.

In response, Adedeji argued that Tinubu's personal lifestyle does not reflect the image of excessive spending often associated with government officials. "Mr. President goes from home to office on foot, not even driving.

I don't know except he's going to the airport, so I don't know where you see the convoy," he said, pushing back against claims that the President lives extravagantly.

The NRS Chairman also addressed the claim that Tinubu has been absent from the country, stating that the President has not left Nigeria in three months. He told the host, "Three months, Mr. President has not left Nigeria. He has been here.

He has not been anywhere. You go to the Villa and see the work. The President is doing the work." His comments come amid ongoing debates about the cost of governance and the size of the federal executive, with many Nigerians calling for a reduction in the number of ministers and government officials to cut spending.

Adedeji, a key member of Tinubu's economic team, argued that the President is not a lavish spender and that his commitment to fiscal discipline should be acknowledged. "He is frugal.

He doesn't believe in flamboyance," Adedeji said, adding that Tinubu's decision to walk to the office and avoid unnecessary travel demonstrates his dedication to reducing government waste.

However, his claims have been met with skepticism from some Nigerians who point to the President's frequent international trips earlier in his tenure, including visits to France, Saudi Arabia, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.

The interview comes amid a broader national conversation about the cost of governance in Nigeria, where the government spends a significant portion of its budget on recurrent expenditures, including the salaries and allowances of political appointees.

While Adedeji's defence of the President may reassure some supporters, critics remain unconvinced, arguing that the government's spending habits do not align with the economic realities facing ordinary Nigerians.

As the debate continues, Adedeji's remarks have added a new dimension to the conversation, highlighting the disconnect between government narratives and public perception.