Beyond the Numbers: The Truth Behind the Federal Government’s Presentations at Arewa House

At the recently concluded two-day interactive session organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation at Arewa House, Kaduna, the Federal Government presented what it described as significant strides in various sectors under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The session, held between July 29th and 30th, 2025, brought together policymakers, scholars, stakeholders, and the public in a “frank dialogue” aimed at reviewing the midterm performance of the present administration.

As expected, the Federal Government team came armed with statistics—charts, graphs, figures, and projections—meant to paint a picture of progress, stability, and reform. From infrastructure rollout to fiscal interventions, social investment schemes to energy transitions, the numbers were compelling, the tone optimistic, and the narrative carefully woven.
Yet, as Mark Twain famously noted, “There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics.” This enduring proverb reminds us that while numbers can inform, they can also obscure; while they may show growth, they may also mask inequality or suffering. In this context, it becomes imperative to ask: what do the statistics reveal, and more importantly, what do they conceal?

Take, for instance, the figures presented on food inflation and employment generation. Though progress was claimed in stabilizing prices and creating jobs, the lived reality for many citizens—particularly in Northern Nigeria—speaks otherwise.

Youth disillusionment, escalating insecurity, and cost-of-living burdens are yet to be fully reflected in the government’s metrics.

Or consider the presentation on infrastructure. Yes, one could say that thousands kilometers of roads were highlighted. But to what extent have these projects impacted the average citizen in Zamfara, Bauchi, Katsina, Jigawa, Kano Niger, Benue, Yobe, Adamawa, Kebbi? As Aaron Levenstein aptly put it, “Statistics are like a bikini; what they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital.”

That is not to say the Federal Government’s efforts are to be dismissed. The Tinubu administration has, without doubt, undertaken reforms under difficult fiscal and political conditions. The Petroleum subsidy removal and the FX unification are bold moves with long-term implications. But boldness must not be mistaken for blanket success. The essence of democratic accountability is not just in projecting achievements but also in acknowledging shortfalls.

The Kaduna session was an opportunity for honest dialogue—not a monologue of government self-appraisal. It is in this spirit that stakeholders must continue to interrogate both the data and the delivery mechanisms. For the North in particular, which continues to face acute developmental challenges, mere statistical satisfaction will not suffice. Tangible improvements in security, education, healthcare, and agriculture are what will ultimately define success.

In the end, progress must not only be measured in spreadsheets but felt in the streets. For it is not in how well statistics defend a government, but in how deeply governance transforms a people.
Northerners, shine your eyes!!!
Anonymous