If you listen to a Nigerian speak English, you’ll need a translator”- Kenya’s President, William Ruto

President William Ruto has criticised Nigeria’s economic conditions and English usage, pushing back against comments by President Bola Tinubu that Nigerians are better off than citizens of other African countries.

The exchange followed remarks by Tinubu during a visit to Bayelsa State, where he inaugurated key infrastructure projects and defended his administration’s economic policies despite rising fuel prices.

“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. Listen to them in Kenya and other African countries and what they are going through. We will not look back. We will continue to fine way to ameliorate the sufferings of the vulnerable,” Tinubu had said.

In a now-viral video response, Ruto dismissed the comparison, pointing to Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges, particularly its persistent power supply issues, and taking a swipe at its English usage.

“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’ve the best human capital anywhere in the world,” Ruto said, using humour to defend his country’s standing.