As Nigeria commemorates its independence-golf-tournament-400-golfers/” title=”Over 400 Golfers Set to Battle for Glory at …s 65th … Golf Tournament!”>65th year of independence on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, former Vice President and opposition figure Atiku Abubakar has commended the steadfastness of Nigerians amid escalating economic difficulties and security challenges. He criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) government for neglecting the welfare of its citizens.
In a statement released on Tuesday through his spokesperson, Paul Ibe, Atiku highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by Nigerians, including increasing food shortages, widespread unemployment, and intensifying insecurity.
“The Nigerian people are suffering immensely due to rampant insecurity, worsening food scarcity, soaring unemployment rates, and a pervasive sense of despair, all exacerbated by the indifference of the APC-led government,” he remarked.
He painted a grim picture of the nation’s condition, emphasizing that despite Nigeria’s rich human capital and natural wealth, millions have been forced into destitution and displacement within their own country.
“A responsible administration prioritizes the safety and well-being of its citizens. Unfortunately, the current government has forsaken its people. While hunger ravages families and armed bandits terrorize communities, President Tinubu and his ministers remain detached and unresponsive,” Atiku added.
The former atiku-david-mark-of-undermining-pdp-stability/” title=”Wike accuses …, David Mark of undermining PDP stability”>vice president, who represented the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 presidential election, encouraged Nigerians to maintain hope, underscoring that democracy offers a pathway to transformation.
“The strength of democracy lies in the voting power of the people. Though our citizens may feel oppressed and downtrodden now, they will have the opportunity to replace this ineffective administration in the upcoming elections. This is a power that no elite group can strip away,” he affirmed.
Atiku also attributed Nigeria’s sluggish development over the years to ineffective leadership and mismanagement of resources.
“At 65 years, Nigeria remains a giant hampered by fragile foundations, a consequence of decades marked by poor governance and squandered opportunities,” he observed.
Nonetheless, he expressed optimism that with competent leadership, Nigeria can surmount its difficulties and restore its esteemed status on the global stage.
“With visionary and capable leadership, the nation can rise above years of misrule and reclaim its rightful place among the world’s respected nations,” he concluded.
Atiku ended his message by extending warm wishes to all Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 65th Independence Day celebration.