The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Economic Affairs, Tope Fasua, has advised Nigerians to adjust their lifestyles and spending patterns in response to the country’s rising economic pressure.
Fasua made the remarks while responding to questions during a members-only Coffee Hangout organised by Kay Hikers Club in Abuja.
Heated Exchange Over Cost of Living
The presidential aide spoke during a tense discussion with a female attendee who criticised the worsening cost of living, insecurity, and declining purchasing power in the country.
The woman argued that basic food items had become unaffordable for many Nigerians struggling to survive under the current economic conditions.
Reacting to the concerns, Fasua admitted that prices had increased but maintained that families could still manage their resources properly if spending was controlled.
“A modest family will feed for several days with ₦10,000,” he said.
Fasua Urges Nigerians to Spend Wisely
Fasua further advised Nigerians to embrace more disciplined spending habits and focus on buying food items they could prepare at home.
“You will know how to cut your coat according to your cloth. You can go to the market, I go to the market too. I have customers in Utako market, in Wuse market. I like shopping. I like going to the market. I test things. You can buy foodstuff which you cook at home,” he added.
The economic adviser also stated that the government could not satisfy every expectation from citizens, insisting that Nigerians needed to adapt to present economic realities.
Government Cannot Meet Every Expectation — Fasua
According to him, public criticism often ignores the broader economic challenges facing the country.
“I know things are expensive, more expensive than they were before. But if we want sensation, government will never win,” Fasua stated during the discussion.
His comments have since sparked reactions online, with many Nigerians debating the affordability of food and the impact of rising inflation on households across the country.