Buhari Warns Against Political Interference as Tinubu Marks Two Years in Office

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has cautioned against allowing “nettlesome domestic politics” to undermine ongoing economic reforms as President Bola Tinubu’s administration reaches its second anniversary in office.

In a congratulatory message marking Tinubu’s mid-term milestone, Buhari urged Nigerians to temper their expectations and support the current administration’s reform agenda, emphasizing that meaningful change requires time to materialize.

“Reforms would achieve success gradually, not overnight,” Buhari stated in the message released through his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, on Tuesday.

The former president acknowledged the severe impact of poverty and inflation on Nigerian families, particularly the poorest households, but stressed that addressing these challenges extends beyond government responsibility alone.

Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” has implemented significant economic reforms including the removal of petrol subsidies, liberalization of the naira exchange rate, and full repayment of a $3.4 billion COVID-19 loan. However, these policies have also triggered a severe cost-of-living crisis across the country.

Buhari called for collaborative efforts between government, private sector, and citizens to tackle the nation’s economic challenges. “The private sector and all of us as citizens must join in all ways we can,” he said, expressing support for the Tinubu administration’s poverty and inflation reduction efforts.

The endorsement comes just days after the All Progressives Congress officially nominated Tinubu as its sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election on May 23, 2025, amid ongoing defections from opposition parties.

Buhari advised Nigerians to maintain optimism about the country’s future while managing their expectations from government. “Our expectations from our governments should not get heavy,” he counseled.

Concluding his message, the former president offered personal congratulations to his successor: “I am wishing President Tinubu heartfelt congratulations on his two years in office. May you keep leading with wisdom and care.”

The statement reflects growing political support for Tinubu’s reform agenda despite widespread public criticism over the economic hardships accompanying his policy changes.