Tiinubu Presidency Falsely Claims Nigeria 4th In Global Economic Growth, IMF Ranks It 37th
The Tinubu Presidency has falsely claimed that Nigeria is the fourth fastest-growing economy in the world, following only Saudi Arabia, China, and India, based on economic projections from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The Special Adviser to the President, Sunday Dare, and Dada Olusegun, a social media aide, propagated this claim on social media, stating that Nigeria’s economic growth is among the top five globally.
However, the IMF’s World Economic Outlook for April 2025 contradicts this assertion.
According to the IMF, Nigeria’s projected real GDP growth rate stands at 3%, ranking it 37th globally in terms of economic growth, not fourth.
Countries such as China, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam, among others, have higher growth projections than Nigeria.
The confusion stems from a misinterpretation of the IMF data, as the Presidency has cited projections based on real GDP growth.
Countries like Senegal, Ghana, and Ethiopia in Africa have higher projections, further disproving Nigeria’s position as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
The IMF defines GDP growth as a crucial indicator of an economy’s health, and the accurate rankings reveal Nigeria’s position far below the claim made by the Presidency.
It remains unclear why the government has presented misleading information regarding Nigeria’s economic status.
Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications to the President, shared the claim, stating: “Nigeria takes the lead in Africa with Economic Growth as President Tinubu’s Reform Policies abate the Headwinds that confronted Nigeria’s Economy two years ago.”
He continued: “Nigeria’s economy is ranked among the 5 top growing economies in the world. Nigeria, with its 230 million population, Vast Resources and a President with Clear Vision can punch above its weight again.”
Dada Olusegun, the social media aide, further added, “Nigeria’s economy is on the rise and set to lead the global economy, with an impressive growth rate that ranks us fourth worldwide.”
In response to the scrutiny, Dare also mentioned, “This is a clear indication of how the President’s policies are shaping our economy for global recognition.”
These claims were met with scepticism as experts pointed out the inconsistencies in the government’s portrayal of Nigeria’s economic growth.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
