RismadarVoice Reporters
November 2, 2026
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has said President Bola Tinubu inherited an economy facing severe financial difficulties from former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration in 2023.
Mutfwang made the remarks on Monday during the inauguration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council in Jos, where he defended the Federal Government’s economic reforms.
According to the governor, Nigeria was struggling with foreign exchange shortages, external financial obligations and difficulties faced by international businesses seeking to repatriate their earnings.
He claimed that the previous administration resorted to excessive borrowing and Central Bank financing, alleging that more than ₦30 trillion was created to support government expenditure.
Mutfwang also criticised the former fuel subsidy system, alleging that fraudulent claims and unsustainable payments placed significant pressure on public finances.
He argued that Tinubu’s decision to remove the subsidy had helped address fuel supply shortages, although petrol remained expensive for consumers.
The governor further claimed that Nigeria’s foreign reserves had improved significantly under the current administration.
However, his suggestion that reserves stood at approximately $3 billion when Tinubu assumed office requires clarification.
Central Bank figures indicate that Nigeria’s gross foreign reserves were approximately $35 billion in May 2023, while net reserves stood at $3.99 billion at the end of that year.
Mutfwang also highlighted his administration’s efforts to reduce the impact of economic hardship in Plateau State.
He cited the introduction of public transport buses, rehabilitation of railway services within Jos, reductions in tertiary institution fees and increased student allowances.
The governor commended the Federal Government’s student loan programme, NELFUND, saying Plateau students had benefited from financial assistance.
On the 2027 elections, Mutfwang supported the principle of rotating the presidency between northern and southern Nigeria, arguing that established political arrangements should be respected.
He also expressed confidence in securing another term as Plateau State governor.
Addressing insecurity, Mutfwang acknowledged that communities continued to face attacks and displacement despite government interventions.
He said his administration was working with security agencies to improve protection for vulnerable communities and facilitate the return of internally displaced persons.
The governor urged political candidates and campaign officials to communicate their policies responsibly and avoid statements capable of deepening divisions.
He maintained that addressing Nigeria’s economic and security challenges would require sustained government action and public cooperation.
