Atiku pledges fuel subsidy, border reopening and lower pilgrimage costs in 2027 bid

Atiku launches 2027 campaign in Sokoto

On 4 November 2026, former Vice‑President Atiku Abubakar formally launched the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential campaign in Sokoto State. The event, described as a flag‑off rally, was attended by supporters who welcomed him to the historic city. During the launch, Atiku announced a set of policy proposals aimed at addressing Nigeria’s economic and security challenges. He pledged to restore the petroleum subsidy, reopen the country’s land borders with neighbouring states and reduce the cost of pilgrimage for both Muslim and Christian faithful. The former vice‑president also vowed to end insecurity, restore hope for young people and make the country affordable again. He said Nigerians were tired of hunger, fear and broken promises, and that the ADC offered a clear alternative.

Background

Atiku Abubakar has been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics for decades, serving as Vice‑President from 1999 to 2007. He is now the presidential candidate of the ADC, a party that has positioned itself as a challenger to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The campaign launch in Sokoto followed a day after Atiku alleged that the Department of State Services (DSS) was attempting to disrupt the ADC’s activities in the state. The DSS responded by saying it was investigating the matter.

Policy pledges

### Fuel subsidy restoration Atiku said that restoring the petroleum subsidy would be a priority for his administration. He argued that the subsidy would ease the burden of rising fuel prices, reduce transportation costs and lower the prices of essential commodities.

### Border reopening The former vice‑president pledged to reopen Nigeria’s land borders with neighbouring countries. He said the move would revive economic activity, strengthen regional trade and improve the livelihoods of communities that depend on cross‑border commerce. He added that the reopening would create opportunities for traders, farmers and other economic operators.

### Lower pilgrimage fares Atiku promised to reduce the cost of pilgrimage for Muslim and Christian faithful. He said the cost of religious journeys should not be an overwhelming burden for ordinary Nigerians and that his administration would introduce policies to improve citizens’ welfare.

Why it matters

The pledges address several pressing issues for Nigerians. Fuel subsidies have been a long‑standing source of government revenue and public discontent, with fuel price hikes affecting the cost of living. Border closures have limited trade and created economic hardship for communities along Nigeria’s frontiers. High pilgrimage costs have strained household budgets, especially for low‑income families. By tackling these areas, Atiku aims to improve the standard of living, reduce insecurity and restore confidence in the nation’s security architecture. His campaign also seeks to position the ADC as a viable alternative to the APC, which critics say has failed to address poverty, hunger and insecurity.

What happens next

The ADC will continue its campaign leading up to the 2027 presidential election. Atiku’s promises are part of a broader strategy to win support across Nigeria, particularly in states such as Sokoto where the party has a strong presence. The next steps will involve policy development, fundraising and mobilising voters ahead of the election.

The sources do not indicate any specific dates or further actions beyond the campaign launch. However, the ADC’s leadership, including National Chairman Senator David Mark, has expressed confidence that the party will win the 2027 elections.