Nigeria, Kenya Presidents exchange words over economic conditions.

A diplomatic row has emerged between President Bola Tinubu and his Kenyan counterpart, William Ruto, over contrasting views on Africa’s economic realities.

CBI News reports that the disagreement followed remarks by Tinubu during a working visit to Bayelsa State, where he defended his administration’s economic reforms amid growing concerns over rising fuel prices and cost of living.

Speaking at the inauguration of key infrastructure projects, Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, insisting that the country’s situation compares favourably with some other African nations.

“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,” he said.

The President added: “Listen to them in Kenya and other African countries and what they are going through. We will not look back. We will continue to find way to ameliorate the sufferings of the vulnerable.”

Reacting in a viral video, Ruto dismissed Tinubu’s comparison, pointing to Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges, particularly in the power sector.

He also took a swipe at Nigeria’s English usage, drawing reactions online.

“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 have the best human capital anywhere in the world,” Ruto said.

The exchange comes as many African countries, including Nigeria and Kenya, face economic challenges driven by rising fuel prices, inflation, and currency instability.

Global supply disruptions, linked partly to tensions in the Middle East and uncertainties around the Strait of Hormuz, have worsened the situation.

Despite being one of Africa’s largest oil producers, Nigeria continues to grapple with erratic electricity supply and economic volatility, while Kenya faces rising public debt and cost-of-living pressures despite its status as a regional hub for finance and technology.

Meanwhile, Ruto recently met with Nigerian billionaire and founder of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, on the sidelines of the Africa We Build Summit in Nairobi.

During the meeting, the Kenyan leader expressed interest in partnerships in cement and sugar manufacturing, as well as oil refining.

In a post on his 𝕏 account, Ruto emphasised the role of African entrepreneurs in driving growth and innovation.

“As a result, they are crucial partners with governments in transforming our countries, especially in investment and employment creation. We welcome his announcement at the summit that he was ready to partner with Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania in building an oil refinery in Tanga, Tanzania.

“We thank Mr Dangote for believing in Africa and are committed to working with him to make this very important regional project a reality,” he said.