Atiku Abubakar has said he will reinstate the petrol subsidy and throw Nigeria’s land borders open for trade if he wins the 2027 presidential election.
The ADC flagbearer made the commitment on Wednesday in Sokoto, where he launched his campaign before a crowd his party described as unprecedented. He framed the two promises as part of a broader plan to ease economic hardship and revive commercial activity, especially across the North, where cross-border trade sustains many households.
According to him, a government led by him would prioritise legitimate business with neighbouring countries, restore the fuel subsidy and intensify efforts against insecurity so that farmers can safely return to their fields.
Atiku also asked voters to turn out in force next year, stay protective of their ballots and ensure results reflect the will of the people. He warned that the ADC would not tolerate any repeat of the irregularities he alleged marred the last general election.
The former vice-president described Sokoto as a significant political and historical hub in the North and West Africa, and thanked the state’s party leadership for hosting the launch — while accusing the ruling party in the state of trying to frustrate the rally.
ADC National Chairman David Mark said the huge turnout signalled Sokoto residents’ appetite for change. He noted that the delegation needed over three hours to cover less than 10 kilometres from the airport to the venue because of the crowds, and touted the Atiku–Rotimi Amaechi ticket as the right pairing to fix security and the economy.
Amaechi, the running mate, argued that the 2027 contest should be decided on living conditions rather than religion or ethnicity, urging Nigerians to judge the Tinubu administration by the cost of living and its record in office.
Former Sokoto governor Aminu Tambuwal, now senator for Sokoto South, called for the APC’s removal in 2027, accusing the government of failing on insecurity, poverty, hunger and infrastructure. He said the election should be about competent leadership, not political or regional loyalty.
Mark later handed the party’s flag to its Sokoto governorship candidate, Muhammad Manir Dan’Iya.
The delegation arrived at Sultan Abubakar III International Airport shortly after 1pm but only reached the venue close to 5pm, as supporters lined the roads to welcome Atiku.
The pledges feed into the continuing argument over the Tinubu administration’s decision to scrap the petrol subsidy in May 2023. Atiku has repeatedly promised to bring it back, alongside targeted support for locally refined products, while the APC campaign has demanded details on how he would fund and execute the plan. On borders, the Federal Government has disputed claims that they remain shut, insisting key land crossings have already been reopened under past and present administrations.
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