Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has declared that his expected participation in Nigeria’s 2027 election may be his last attempt at the presidency, citing rising political stakes and the need for the country to gain from his experience.
Speaking during an interview on Arise TV on Wednesday night, Atiku said, “The stakes are higher because I believe that it will be my last… I think that’s a fact.”
The former vice president, who has contested the presidency multiple times, argued that his blend of experience and historical perspective positions him uniquely to lead the country at a critical time.
“I represent both the past and the future,” he said, noting that while Nigeria has witnessed leadership across generations, expectations from younger leaders have not always been met. According to him, emerging politicians require mentorship and guidance from more experienced figures.
Atiku drew from his time serving under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, stating that practical governance experience can only be gained from direct participation at the highest level.
Responding to criticism that he represents Nigeria’s deep state, Atiku argued that leadership challenges in several states under younger governors highlight the need for experience at the centre.
He described Nigeria’s governance issues as both individual and systemic, stressing that capable leadership remains essential to stabilising the system.
He also reflected on past administrations, citing the transition following the tenure of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and the leadership of Goodluck Jonathan. While acknowledging Jonathan as “a decent man,” Atiku attributed governance shortcomings during that period to inexperience in handling national challenges.
On his current political alignment, Atiku confirmed his role as a key initiator of a broad opposition coalition, which he said includes members from multiple political parties.
He argued that such alliances are necessary to strengthen electoral viability and democratic competition.
According to him, the coalition is driven by both a shared vision and a collective resolve to challenge the administration of President Bola Tinubu, which he described as disappointing, particularly in economic management.
“Tinubu has been a very bad president, to be honest with you. I didn’t expect that from him… the way he governs the country, whether economically or otherwise, it’s a disappointment,” Atiku said.
Atiku further stated that the coalition prioritises strengthening democratic institutions, including reinforcing the separation of powers and safeguarding constitutional governance.
Addressing concerns about internal rivalries among prominent political figures within the alliance, he expressed confidence in the maturity of its members and the possibility of reaching consensus on a presidential candidate.
He affirmed his willingness to support any candidate who emerges through either consensus or a democratic process, including former allies, stating, “I will step aside for any candidate who emerges.”
The former vice president concluded that the coalition reflects a deliberate generational mix, designed to ensure leadership continuity and provide a pathway for future political succession in Nigeria.
