Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reignited debate over Nigeria’s social welfare strategy, criticising the federal government’s reliance on food distribution as a response to rising hardship across the country.

In a statement issued on Friday to mark Workers’ Day, Atiku, through his spokesperson Phrank Shaibu, faulted the recent rollout of palliatives led by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, describing it as an approach that raises broader questions about long-term economic policy and governance priorities.

The initiative, which includes the distribution of 100 trucks of rice and N1.2 billion in relief materials to northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, was unveiled a day earlier as part of efforts by authorities to cushion the impact of economic challenges on vulnerable populations.

Atiku argued that while immediate relief may offer temporary support, it does not address deeper structural issues such as inflation, declining agricultural productivity, and insecurity affecting farming communities, particularly in the North. According to him, these underlying factors continue to weaken food systems and household incomes.

He further pointed to concerns about farmland insecurity, noting that disruptions in agricultural activities have contributed to reduced output and strained supply chains. The former vice president maintained that sustainable solutions would require policies focused on security, production, and economic stability rather than periodic interventions.

The federal government has yet to formally respond to the latest criticism, but officials have consistently maintained that palliative measures are part of broader efforts to ease economic pressure while reforms take effect. Analysts say the exchange highlights a growing policy conversation on how best to balance immediate relief with long-term economic recovery strategies.