In a surprising turn of events, the Nigeria Youths for Atiku (NYFA), a prominent support group for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has called on him to reenter the presidential race in 2027.
This plea was made during the group’s annual convention held in Lagos, as conveyed by Gold Emmanuel, the president of NYFA, in a statement released on Wednesday.
Emmanuel highlighted the extensive grassroots support that NYFA enjoys across all 36 states of Nigeria, solidifying their position as a leading force backing Atiku Abubakar.
The group’s national leadership reviewed the former vice president’s personal achievements and deemed him worthy of leading the country.
Atiku’s successful management of an international university and various businesses were cited as testament to his expertise in private enterprise.
According to Emmanuel, the group believes that individuals aspiring for public office should demonstrate success in the private sector first.
They firmly believe that Atiku’s experience in business will be instrumental in rectifying the economic distortions caused by the current administration’s flawed policies.
In addition to his business acumen, Atiku Abubakar’s philanthropic endeavors were praised as exemplary leadership qualities. Notably, his discreet commitment to providing education for some of the rescued Chibok girls was commended by NYFA.
Addressing the economic challenges faced by Nigerians, the president of NYFA expressed confidence in Atiku’s ability to steer the country towards the right economic path if given the opportunity to lead.
She stressed the necessity of having a passionate Nigerian president who comprehends the intricacies of the nation’s economy and political dynamics.
Referring to Atiku’s economic blueprint during the 2023 presidential campaign, Emmanuel asserted its superiority and accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of adopting and mismanaging some of Atiku’s programs.
Atiku Abubakar, who served as vice president from 1999 to 2007, has consistently run for the presidency in subsequent elections under different political platforms, but without success.
In the 2023 general elections, he contested under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and emerged as the runner-up, losing to the incumbent President Bola Tinubu.
With the resounding support from NYFA, Atiku faces increasing pressure to heed the call of the Nigerian youths and make a comeback in 2027, aiming to make a lasting impact on the country’s political landscape.