William Ruto has criticised Nigeria’s economic situation and English usage, responding to remarks by Bola Ahmed Tinubu that Nigerians are better off than citizens of other African countries.
The exchange followed comments made by Tinubu during a visit to Bayelsa State, where he commissioned major infrastructure projects and defended his administration’s economic policies despite rising fuel prices.
“It is very important that we are honest with our people. Yes, I hear you from various angles of the economy. The fuel price is biting hard, but look around, let us thank God together, that you are better off. Listen to them in Kenya and other African countries and what they are going through. We will not look back. We will continue to fine way to ameliorate the sufferings of the vulnerable,” Tinubu had said.
In a now-viral video response, Ruto dismissed the comparison, highlighting Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges, particularly its ongoing power supply issues, while also making remarks about its English usage.
“Our education is good. Our English is good. We speak the best English in the world. If you listen to a Nigerian speak English, you’ll need a translator. We’ve the best human capital anywhere in the world,” Ruto said, using humour to defend his country’s position.
The development comes amid broader economic pressures across Africa, including rising fuel prices linked to global supply disruptions, partly driven by tensions in the Middle East and concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route.
The exchange has generated widespread reactions on social media, with many users criticising both the comparison and the tone of the remarks.
On X (formerly Twitter), a user, Bureau-39, wrote, “Let’s not drag the whole country into this shit between two incompetent mad corrupt politicians. Both the countries speak good English, Kenya leans toward a clearer, more British-influenced style, while Nigeria mixes it with rich local flair and pidgin that can sound like its own dialect.”
Another commenter, Frank Bryant, questioned the relevance of the argument, stating, “Why should Africans be competing over who speaks the colonial masters language very well?”
Xave added, “and you think they would listen to you the only thing Africans are good at is fighting amongst themselves.”
Obiridike commented, “They will do that Ghanaians and South Africans say all Nigerians are thieves and drug peddlers.”
Similarly, Michael James echoed, “They will do that Ghanaians and South Africans say all Nigerians are thieves and drug peddlers.”
While Nigeria remains one of Africa’s largest oil producers, it continues to face challenges such as inflation, currency instability, and inconsistent electricity supply.
Kenya, meanwhile, has positioned itself as a regional hub for finance and technology, although it is also dealing with economic difficulties, including rising debt levels and cost-of-living pressures.
