The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Economic Affairs, Tope Fasua, has clarified his recent remark suggesting that N10,000 could feed a family for several days, stating that he actually referred to “a person,” not a household.
Fasua made the clarification in a statement shared on his Facebook page on Sunday, following public backlash over a viral clip from his interaction with Kay’s Hikers Club in Abuja on May 5, 2026.
According to him, the comment was made within the context of rural Nigeria and was promptly corrected during the session.
“My attention has been drawn to the viral two-second clip of my interaction with Kay’s Hikers Club held on May 5, 2026, at The Destination, Abuja, wherein I stated that N10,000 is enough to ‘feed a modest family for several days’,” he said.
“There is a need to clarify that I meant to say ‘person’, and not ‘family’. We were speaking at that point in the context of rural Nigeria. I immediately clarified my statement and emphasised the need for prudent personal financial management amid global economic pressures.”
Fasua explained that the engagement, which lasted over two hours, centred
on Nigeria’s economic reforms, taxation policies and emerging opportunities despite ongoing challenges.He acknowledged that some participants—largely young Nigerians—were confrontational during the discussion but described the session as necessary for fostering direct dialogue between government officials and citizens.
“Still, I believe it was an important outing, such that should be encouraged between government appointees and citizens — especially Gen Zs,” he noted.
The adviser added that conversations also touched on the struggles of foreign retail chains and the rise of indigenous businesses, citing local brands such as Ebeano, Sahad, JustRite, HyperCity, Bokku and Market Square as thriving alternatives.
Fasua further criticised what he termed sensational reporting and the selective use of short video clips on social media, arguing that such practices often distort the full context of discussions.
“We live in a world where people judge by headlines, and where selective reportage can put people in awkward situations,” he said.
He concluded by urging Nigerian youths to remain optimistic about the country’s prospects rather than seeking opportunities abroad, noting that many face significant challenges in developed nations.
“I will continue to encourage young Nigerians to believe in building their nation, where they may ultimately find better prospects,” he added.
