Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Wednesday announced his intention to contest for the presidential nomination of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The former number two citizen pinned his promises on five priority areas: unity, security, economy, education and devolving more powers to the federating units.
“When the APC came in 2015, they met a debt profile of N12tn. But now we have more than N32tn in debt. Under my watch, I will reduce borrowing,” he told a press conference at the International Conference Centre, Abuja.
Atiku’s declaration comes seven days to the two-week deadline given to the PDP zoning committee to make recommendations for the zoning of various elective positions before the elections.
“Nigeria is in dire need of visionary leadership. Presently Nigeria is a sinking ship that must be urgently rescued. That is why I am announcing my candidacy for president.
“I offer myself to rescue the ship. Under my captainship, this ship will sail to brighter days by the grace of God. This is a journey I will take with all Nigerians,” he said.
Atiku was the presidential candidate of the PDP in 2015.
“Under my presidency, there will be a new Nigerian where everybody has an equal voice and is heard,” he said.
In his address, the Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri said an Atiku presidency will unite and secure the country, salvage the economy and create jobs for Nigerians.
