Atiku Promises to Tackle Nigeria’s Insecurity Within One Year If Elected
ABUJA – Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has promised to bring Nigeria’s insecurity under control within one year if elected president in the 2027 general election.
Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made the pledge during an interview with BBC Hausa, where he outlined some of his plans for addressing insecurity, unemployment and regional security challenges.
The former vice-president said his proposed administration would increase the number of security personnel, provide them with better equipment and ensure adequate funding for security operations.
He also linked youth unemployment to criminal activities, saying his government would create opportunities for young Nigerians to establish businesses and become economically productive.
Atiku expressed confidence that these measures would produce significant results within his first year in office.
Atiku Proposes Revival of ECOMOG
The ADC candidate also said he would work with leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to revive the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG).
According to him, stronger cooperation among the armed forces of West African countries would improve regional efforts against terrorism and other security threats.
He specifically mentioned countries including Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone and Liberia as potential partners in strengthening regional security cooperation.
Atiku also criticised the deterioration of Nigeria’s relationship with Niger Republic following the military takeover in that country.
He argued that the political situation in Niger should not lead Nigeria to abandon its longstanding relationship with the country, insisting that the two nations share deep historical and cultural ties.
The former vice-president said that, if elected, he would work towards bringing Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali back into ECOWAS in an effort to strengthen regional cooperation.
Atiku Raises Concerns Over 2027 Election
On the 2027 presidential election, Atiku expressed doubts about the ability of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a credible election.
He nevertheless urged Nigerians to participate in the election and ensure that their votes are properly protected and counted.
Atiku also disclosed that the 2027 presidential contest would be his final attempt to become Nigeria’s president.
He said he would continue to make his experience and advice available to younger politicians if he does not emerge victorious.
Former VP Defends Fuel Subsidy Position
Atiku also defended his position on the removal of the petrol subsidy, maintaining that its complete and immediate removal was not the best approach.
He said that if elected, his administration would assess the situation and consult relevant stakeholders before deciding how to handle the policy.
According to him, Nigerians are currently experiencing a level of economic hardship that he has not witnessed in his lifetime.
Atiku blamed the manner in which the subsidy was removed for worsening the pressure on citizens and said the impact had even affected his own farming business.
