Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has declared that the 2027 presidential election will likely be his last attempt to lead Nigeria, pointing to his advancing age as a key factor in the decision.
In an interview aired on Arise Television on Wednesday evening, the veteran politician responded to questions about turning 80 by election year, acknowledging the elevated stakes involved in what could mark the end of his long pursuit of the presidency.
“Certainly yes, because the stakes are higher and I believe that will be my last outing,” Atiku said.
The statement comes as Nigeria’s political landscape begins to shift ahead of the next general elections, with early alignments and coalition talks already underway among opposition figures.
Atiku, who has contested the presidency multiple times since returning to active politics in 2003, first stepped aside in the 1993 Social Democratic Party primaries in favour of the late Moshood Abiola. He later ran under the Action Congress in 2007, the Action Congress of Nigeria in 2011, and as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in 2019 and 2023, losing each time.
He has consistently advocated for restructuring, economic liberalisation and private sector-led growth throughout his career.
The former vice president’s latest comment adds a personal dimension to the unfolding 2027 race, in which he has been linked to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) alongside other prominent opposition leaders.
No immediate reactions from major political parties or rivals were available at the time of reporting, but analysts note that Atiku’s indication of a potential final bid could influence opposition strategies and coalition-building efforts in the coming months.
Atiku has not specified which platform he intends to use for the 2027 contest, though recent reports suggest active engagement within opposition circles.
The 2027 election cycle is expected to feature intense competition, with incumbent President Bola Tinubu widely anticipated to seek re-election under the All Progressives Congress.
