US President Donald Trump supports my proposed return of fuel subsidy — Atiku
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has defended his proposal to reintroduce fuel subsidy, arguing that government intervention in strategic industries is not unusual across major economies.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate pointed to the United States, claiming that President Donald Trump’s approach to supporting strategic energy production aligns with his proposed policy.
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Atiku proposes new approach to fuel price relief
Atiku, who is seeking Nigeria’s presidency in 2027, had earlier promised to restore fuel subsidy if elected.
However, his camp said the proposal goes beyond the traditional subsidy model previously operated in Nigeria.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesman, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku’s proposed “Production Subsidy” would focus on supporting locally produced and refined petroleum products.
The policy, he said, would increase domestic supply, monitor prices and ensure that Nigerians enjoy relief at petrol stations.
“This is why my Production Subsidy is about putting money back into people’s pockets. Support what we produce and refine here, increase supply, monitor the price and make sure Nigerians feel the benefit at the pump.
“CORAN is saying support domestic production. America understands the importance of supporting strategic energy production.
“Yet Tinubu attacks relief for ordinary Nigerians while his government understands perfectly well how to grant waivers, incentives and concessions to multinational oil companies and businesses close to his administration.
“So why does intervention suddenly become bad economics when ordinary Nigerians are meant to benefit?”
ADC candidate tackles criticism of subsidy proposal
Atiku’s camp questioned why government incentives and concessions were considered acceptable for companies but criticised when designed to benefit ordinary citizens.
Shaibu argued that the Federal Government already provides different forms of incentives to businesses and multinational companies operating in strategic sectors.
He maintained that similar interventions could be structured to support domestic refining and reduce the burden of high fuel prices on Nigerians.
The development comes as fuel prices and the economic impact of subsidy removal continue to dominate political discussions ahead of the 2027 general election.