By Peace Erewunmi

BudgIT Nigeria has urged the Federal Government to ensure that the benefits of its economic reforms are reflected in the everyday experiences of Nigerians, rather than being measured mainly through fiscal and economic figures.

The civic organisation made the call while responding to the Federal Ministry of Finance’s report on Nigeria’s 4.43 per cent Gross Domestic Product growth in the second quarter of 2026 and the government’s ambition of building a $1 trillion economy.

BudgIT acknowledged the improvement in key economic indicators but noted that many Nigerians continue to face high living costs. It pointed to food inflation of 20.31 per cent in July and the increase in petrol prices from ₦617 per litre in July 2023 to about ₦1,345 in some parts of the country.

The organisation also noted that combined state revenues increased from ₦4.8 trillion in 2022 to ₦15.5 trillion in 2025. However, it argued that higher nominal revenues do not automatically translate into stronger purchasing power or improved living conditions because inflation, exchange-rate depreciation and debt obligations continue to affect households and governments.

According to BudgIT, the real measure of reform should be whether Nigerians can afford food and transportation, access quality public services and withstand financial shocks without falling deeper into poverty.

The group maintained that economic growth should ultimately translate into better living standards, stronger public services and greater opportunities for ordinary citizens.