Atiku: Each Nigerian owes N716,822 as debt hits N166.79tn amid fresh WB loan bid
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said each Nigerian now owes N716,822 as the country’s total debt reached N166.79 trillion by June 2026, according to the Debt Management Office. He made the claim in a statement by his spokesperson Phrank Shaibu on Monday, amid reports that the federal government is seeking a fresh N1.5 trillion loan from the World Bank.
The figure shows an 87% rise from N383,442 per person three years ago, highlighting growing economic pressure. Atiku argued families are struggling to afford food, fuel and electricity while debt climbs, calling President Tinubu’s record an indictment of his economic stewardship and warning that today is difficult and tomorrow more uncertain.
What does this mean for you? With debt per citizen exceeding three‑quarters of a million naira, consider how increased borrowing could affect future taxes, inflation or public services. Monitor the loan’s terms and demand transparency on how the funds will be used. Ask whether new debt will improve livelihoods or deepen the fiscal burden, and hold leaders accountable for sustainable economic management.