The Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Zacch Adedeji, has claimed that President Bola Tinubu walks from his residence to his office, eats once a day and has not travelled outside Nigeria in recent months.

Adedeji made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, in an interview with journalist Seun Okinbaloye, while responding to criticism over the cost of governance and the lifestyle of public officials.

‘Mr President Goes From Home to Office on Foot’

Adedeji rejected suggestions that Tinubu lives extravagantly despite the economic difficulties facing Nigerians.

“Mr President goes from home to office on foot, not even driving except when he is going to the airport,” he said.

He also questioned why Nigerians would consider the President unable to afford luxury items such as an Escalade.

“Please don’t embarrass this country,” Adedeji added.

NRS Chairman Defends Tinubu’s Lifestyle

The NRS chairman further claimed that Tinubu had not travelled outside Nigeria in recent months.

“In the last months, he has not even left the shores of this country, trekking and working,” Adedeji said.

He added that the President spends much of his time reviewing official documents and working on government matters.

“So what is living large? The president eats once in a day. How many parties have you seen him at in the last three years?” he asked.

Adedeji said the President’s lifestyle should be considered when discussing perceptions of extravagance within government.

Claims Draw Mixed Reactions

The comments have generated mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians questioning whether the President’s personal habits adequately address concerns over the broader cost of running government.

Others argued that walking within the secured Aso Rock complex or eating once daily does not necessarily provide evidence about the overall expenses associated with presidential security, official travel and governance.

The specific claims about Tinubu’s walking routine, eating habits and recent foreign travel have not been independently verified in contemporaneous reporting.

Debate Over Cost of Governance Continues

Adedeji’s remarks come amid continued public debate over inflation, living costs, economic hardship and government spending under the Tinubu administration.

The NRS chairman, whose agency emerged from the restructuring of the former Federal Inland Revenue Service as part of Nigeria’s tax reforms, has remained a prominent figure in the government’s revenue mobilisation efforts.

No immediate statement from the Presidency was reported clarifying or expanding on Adedeji’s comments.