Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has described 2025 as one of the most difficult years in Nigeria’s recent history, blaming widespread hardship on what he called poor leadership and failed policies under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In a New Year message to Nigerians, Atiku said millions of citizens endured severe economic pressure, worsening insecurity, and governance challenges throughout the year. He attributed these struggles to the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government.

According to Atiku, the year was marked by economic strain, political recklessness, and a lack of empathy in governance. He argued that many Nigerians found relief only in the fact that the year had finally come to an end.

The former vice president criticised the federal government’s budgetary process and borrowing practices, claiming the administration governed for months without a functional budget while relying heavily on loans. He said these actions pushed the country closer to economic instability.

Atiku also raised concerns about the handling of a controversial tax law, describing it as evidence of administrative decay. He alleged that the law was forged and improperly presented as a reform, adding that the president’s refusal to allow proper legislative and legal scrutiny undermined the rule of law.

Commenting on democracy, Atiku accused the APC of weakening Nigeria’s democratic institutions, claiming the ruling party worked to reduce the country’s multiparty system through intimidation, coercion, and state influence.

On security and the economy, he said rising national debt and worsening insecurity defined the year. He noted an increase in kidnappings, abductions, and violent crimes, which he said affected citizens across all age groups and regions.

He added that communities were devastated, lives were lost, and livelihoods destroyed, while government assurances failed to bring real relief.

Atiku concluded by praising Nigerians for their resilience, stating that the country endured not because of effective leadership, but because of the strength and perseverance of its people, despite what he described as poor governance and questionable appointments.