Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has said Nigerian youths need a government that creates opportunities for prosperity rather than one that teaches them how to cope with worsening economic hardship.
Atiku made the remarks on Saturday after receiving a nationwide delegation of N-Power beneficiaries who declared support for his presidential ambition ahead of the 2027 general election.
The former vice president also pledged to introduce a $100 billion financing programme for start-ups and entrepreneurs if elected president.
According to Atiku, the rising cost of living has significantly reduced the purchasing power of Nigerians, weakened small businesses and made it increasingly difficult for young people to secure employment, access capital and achieve economic independence.
He argued that government policy should move beyond short-term interventions and create an environment in which young Nigerians can build sustainable businesses, secure jobs and improve their standard of living.
“Nigeria’s young people do not need a government that teaches them how to survive hardship. They need a government that gives them the opportunity to prosper,” Atiku said.
He said his proposed approach would focus on restoring purchasing power, reducing the cost of living and deliberately expanding economic opportunities for young Nigerians.
Atiku’s comments form part of his growing campaign message ahead of the 2027 presidential election, where he is seeking to present the ADC as an alternative political platform to the ruling All Progressives Congress.
The former vice president has increasingly focused his campaign rhetoric on economic hardship, youth unemployment and access to finance, arguing that government programmes should be structured around long-term economic empowerment rather than temporary relief.
The latest pledge comes as the cost of living and economic opportunities remain major issues in the political debate ahead of the 2027 election.