2023: Atiku declares for presidency, vows to fix Nigeria’s economy, insecurity, other challenges

Former vice president Atiku Abubakar on Wednesday declared his intention to run for the office of Nigeria president, promising to fix Nigeria’s economy, improve security and delegate more power to states.

The declaration marked the sixth time Atiku will be campaigning for president. He contested for the first time in 1993.

Atiku, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 general election, announced his decision at the International Conference Centre in Abuja.

The PDP 2019 presidential candidate lost to Muhammadu Buhari who was voted into office for a second term.

“This time around is different; our journey will not end at the poll; we will get to work and rescue Nigeria. I invite every Nigerian to join me in this mission to save our dear country,” Atiku said.

“Nigeria is a land of possibility. There is no challenging background that will make any Nigerian give up. I am a living witness to what is possible in Nigeria.”

If he wins the presidency, Atiku said  Nigeria “will operate a liberal economy that allows small businesses to grow through lower taxes for small businesses and low-income earners.”

“Under my presidency, I want to focus on five key areas: the unity of Nigeria, security, economy, education and devolving more resources and powers to the federating units,” Atiku said.

“I have never been this optimistic, and with your support and God’s grace, we will get to the promised land.”

The former vice president will contest the PDP presidential candidacy ticket alongside former Senate president Bukola Saraki, Ovation magazine publisher Dele Momodu, Sokoto State governor Aminu Tambuwal, Pius Ayim and other presidential aspirants that will be joining the race.