Economist and public commentator, Kalu Aja, has stirred debate after claiming that Nigeria’s economy performed better during British colonial rule than it does under current and past democratic leaders, including President Bola Tinubu. He shared the opinion while reacting to Nigeria’s present economic struggles.

According to Aja, basic economic indicators such as infrastructure planning, currency stability, and fiscal discipline were stronger during the colonial period. He argued that successive Nigerian governments have failed to build sustainable systems that support long-term growth and prosperity for citizens.

Aja stressed that his comparison was not praise for colonialism, but a criticism of poor leadership after independence. He said Nigeria has abundant human and natural resources, yet weak governance, corruption, and policy inconsistency continue to limit economic progress.

His remarks have generated mixed reactions, with some Nigerians agreeing that leadership failures have hurt the economy, while others rejected any positive comparison with colonial rule. The comments have once again revived discussions on economic reforms, accountability, and the direction of Nigeria’s future.