Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa Service on Wednesday, Atiku clarified that his interest in the next election is not driven by personal ambition but by the desire to offer Nigerians a credible alternative capable of rescuing the country from its present challenges.
“My being in the 2027 race does not prevent anyone from contesting. If a vibrant and widely accepted younger candidate emerges, I am willing to step aside,” Atiku stated.
The former vice president emphasized that his political mission is focused on service and not desperation for power. He urged Nigerian youths to take their political future seriously by becoming actively involved in shaping the country’s leadership.
“I am not desperate for the presidency. What I want is to see Nigeria delivered from the grip of those holding it hostage. If the younger generation can produce a strong candidate, I will give them my full backing,” he added.
Atiku, who has contested multiple presidential elections, reiterated that he is open to supporting a credible youth candidate through the ADC platform, which he believes can rally Nigerians behind a new vision of leadership.
His comments come amid growing debate within opposition ranks about the need for generational change and the role of elder statesmen in facilitating the rise of younger leaders.
