We’ll Move Youths From Palliatives To Prosperity — Atiku

Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has promised to introduce a $100 billion financing programme for start-ups and entrepreneurs if elected president in 2027.

Atiku made the pledge on Saturday while receiving a nationwide delegation of N-Power beneficiaries who visited him to declare support for his presidential ambition.

The former vice president said young Nigerians needed a government that would create opportunities for them to prosper rather than one that teaches them how to cope with economic hardship.

According to him, the rising cost of living has reduced the purchasing power of millions of Nigerians, weakened small businesses and made it increasingly difficult for young people to secure employment, access capital and achieve economic independence.

Atiku said his administration would focus on restoring purchasing power, reducing the cost of living and deliberately expanding economic opportunities for young Nigerians.

“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,” he said.

He explained that the proposed $100 billion financing programme would support start-ups and entrepreneurs while helping young Nigerians move from dependence to enterprise and from unemployment to productivity.

“My commitment is to change that. We will restore purchasing power, reduce the cost of living and deliberately expand opportunities for young Nigerians, including through a $100 billion financing programme for start-ups and entrepreneurs,” Atiku stated.

The ADC candidate said Nigeria could not build a sustainable future through the distribution of poverty, stressing the need for an economy capable of creating jobs, rewarding enterprise and providing young people with opportunities to succeed.

He thanked the N-Power beneficiaries for their confidence and said their support reinforced his belief that Nigerians wanted an economy that provided dignity and genuine opportunities.

Atiku said the country faced a choice between continuing with an economy that shrinks opportunities and building one capable of restoring hope and prosperity.

“Our objective is simple: move young Nigerians from dependence to enterprise, from unemployment to productivity, and from palliatives to prosperity,” he said.

The former vice president is seeking to return to the presidency after securing the ADC ticket ahead of the 2027 general election.

He also promised that his administration would work towards making Nigeria more affordable while creating an economic environment where young people could build sustainable businesses and livelihoods.