2027: Atiku Makes Fresh Promises to Nigerians on Insecurity, Fuel Subsidy

• Atiku has promised to restore fuel subsidy, reopen land borders for trade and tackle insecurity if elected president in 2027, unveiling his priorities at the ADC campaign launch in Sokoto.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has pledged to restore petroleum subsidy and reopen Nigeria’s land borders for legitimate trade if elected president in the 2027 general elections.

Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, outlined the proposals during the party’s presidential campaign launch in Sokoto on Wednesday, November 4.

He said his administration would prioritise security, economic recovery and measures aimed at easing the financial pressure on households.

The former vice-president also promised to reduce pilgrimage fares for Muslim and Christian faithful, presenting the commitments as part of his proposed response to rising living costs.

Atiku argued that expanding cross-border trade would create opportunities for farmers, traders, transporters and other businesses while strengthening commercial ties with neighbouring countries.

He said restoring petroleum subsidy would help cushion fuel costs and reduce the pressure that transportation expenses place on commodity prices.

The proposals remain campaign commitments, with their implementation dependent on his election and subsequent policy decisions.

In a separate statement preceding the rally, Atiku described his proposed fuel intervention as a targeted production subsidy linked to fuel refined in Nigeria. He said the approach would support domestic industry while delivering relief to consumers.

His border pledge also comes against an existing disagreement with the Federal Government over the status of Nigeria’s land crossings.

Responding to an earlier version of the proposal, Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo said the country’s borders were not generally closed and cited crossings that had already resumed operations. That earlier government response should not be confused with a new reaction to Wednesday’s rally.

At the Sokoto event, ADC National Chairman David Mark urged supporters to translate their enthusiasm into votes. He described the reception for the party’s leaders as an indication of growing support in the state.

The party’s governorship candidate, Manir Dan’iya, also pledged to mobilise supporters for Atiku and other ADC candidates.

Former Sokoto governor Aminu Tambuwal called for leadership that would improve security, economic stability and social protection, urging voters to support the party in 2027.