Atiku Abubakar: The President Nigeria Never Had – And Desperately Needs in 2027

Atiku Abubakar: The President Nigeria Never Had – And Desperately Needs in 2027

By Matthew Eloyi

In the pantheon of Nigerian political figures, few names evoke as much contemplation, admiration, and what-could-have-been as Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. For decades, he has remained one of the most consistent voices in the nation’s democratic journey—a man who has refused to be silenced, defeated, or discouraged despite multiple attempts to serve his country at the highest level. As we look ahead to 2027, the time has come for Nigerians to rally behind a man whose leadership is not just overdue, but whose presidency could very well be the redemption this nation desperately needs.

Atiku Abubakar is, without question, the President Nigeria never had. We’ve had presidents by fate, presidents by accident, and presidents by chance; but never one truly defined by readiness, preparation, and a clear, articulated vision for national transformation like Atiku. He has run for the presidency multiple times, and each time, he has done so with a well-thought-out manifesto, policy blueprints, and a team of credible technocrats poised to deliver. Yet, for reasons ranging from the complexities of ethnic politics to institutional sabotage, he has always been denied the mandate.

But Nigeria cannot afford to keep ignoring Atiku. Not now. Not when the country is facing its most severe economic downturn, deepening insecurity, increasing youth disillusionment, and a growing sense of hopelessness. In Atiku, Nigeria has a statesman who embodies competence, character, and courage—three things sorely missing in many quarters of our current leadership spectrum.

During his eight-year tenure as Vice President from 1999 to 2007, Atiku did not merely occupy office; he worked. He chaired the National Economic Council and led the reform agenda that transformed sectors like telecommunications, banking, and ports. The liberalisation of the telecoms industry, arguably one of the most successful policies in recent history, was largely driven by Atiku’s vision. Millions of Nigerians today enjoy the benefits of that singular decision: jobs were created, businesses flourished, and digital communication became democratised.

The Obasanjo-Atiku administration also initiated the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), laying the groundwork for privatisation and deregulation. These are not abstract achievements; they are real, measurable policies that continue to influence the Nigerian economy today.

Unlike many political actors who emerge with empty slogans, Atiku Abubakar has consistently presented Nigerians with comprehensive policy documents addressing critical national challenges. His plans for restructuring Nigeria, boosting private sector investment, and addressing youth unemployment are not just academic; they are rooted in years of governance experience and deep engagement with global best practices.

He believes in a Nigeria where states have more control over their resources; where the centre is not overburdened; and where economic productivity is localised. That vision of true federalism is the foundation of every successful multi-ethnic society, and it’s time we gave it a chance under a leader who genuinely understands and supports it.

In an era when the political class often appears disconnected from the realities of ordinary Nigerians, Atiku has remained engaged. His active presence on social media, frequent policy dialogues with youth groups, and open-door posture signal a leader who understands the times. He is not rigid or dogmatic. He listens. He adapts. And more importantly, he responds.

Atiku’s efforts in education are further proof of his commitment to the future. The American University of Nigeria (AUN), which he founded in Yola, is a beacon of academic excellence in a region once ravaged by insecurity. Through scholarships, skills acquisition programmes, and continuous philanthropy, Atiku has demonstrated that leadership extends beyond public office; it is about impact.

Nigeria today is a country in distress. Inflation is choking families, food insecurity is on the rise, and the currency has suffered dramatic devaluation. Millions of young Nigerians are either unemployed or underemployed, while others are desperately fleeing the country in what has been tragically dubbed the “Japa wave.” Our security architecture is overstretched, with banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping becoming everyday headlines.

We need a president who doesn’t need on-the-job training. We need a man with both the political will and policy understanding to fix this country. That man is Atiku Abubakar.

Perhaps one of Atiku’s most compelling qualities is his unshakable belief in a united Nigeria. He has never been a regional champion; instead, he has built political bridges across all six geopolitical zones. He speaks for the North and the South, the Christians and the Muslims, the youth and the elders. He has a pan-Nigerian appeal that very few political figures in our history have genuinely enjoyed.

In an increasingly polarised Nigeria, Atiku is the bridge-builder we need. He is a Muslim who promotes religious tolerance. A northerner who respects southern agitation. A leader who is not afraid to talk about difficult issues such as power rotation, inclusivity, and equity.

Atiku will be 81 in 2027. If he runs (and he should), it may very well be his last attempt. But age, as we’ve seen across the world, is no disqualifier when competence is intact. What matters is not how old a leader is, but how sharp, how visionary, and how prepared. On all these counts, Atiku ticks the right boxes.

Nigeria cannot afford another leadership experiment. We’ve paid dearly for inexperience, arrogance, and indifference. It’s time we chose substance over sentiment. It’s time we placed the country’s future in the hands of a man who has prepared all his life for this job.

History is replete with nations that missed their moment: moments when the right leader stood at the door, knocking, and the nation looked the other way. Nigeria must not repeat that mistake in 2027.

Atiku Abubakar is not perfect; no leader is. But in a nation desperate for competence, unity, and a new direction, he is a tested and trusted hand. He is the president Nigeria never had. But if we make the right choice, he can become the president Nigeria needs and deserves.