Atiku to Raise Alarm on Nigeria’s Security and Economy During US Visit

 

ABUJA, Nigeria— Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has outlined plans to engage policy and institutional stakeholders in the United States, with a focus on what he describes as worsening security, governance, and economic conditions in Nigeria.

In a statement issued on May 3, 2026, Atiku warned that the country is facing a deepening internal crisis that should neither be downplayed nor politicised. He cited escalating violence in the North-West and North-East, continued unrest in the Middle Belt, and the spread of kidnapping and criminality nationwide as signs that the state is struggling to protect lives and property.

According to him, the situation reflects broader systemic failure rather than isolated incidents. He said communities are being displaced, livelihoods destroyed, and citizens left vulnerable, stressing that any government unable to guarantee security risks losing the moral basis of its mandate.

On the economy, Atiku described current conditions as severe but avoidable, pointing to rising inflation, currency depreciation, and declining purchasing power. He added that inconsistent policies have further weakened investor confidence and worsened living standards for many Nigerians.

He also raised concerns about democratic institutions, warning that declining trust in governance, accountability, and the electoral process poses a threat to national stability as the country approaches another election cycle.

Responding to possible criticism of his planned US engagements, Atiku said speaking candidly about Nigeria’s challenges does not amount to disloyalty. He argued that Nigeria’s internal issues have global implications and are already known to the international community, while maintaining that leadership choices remain the exclusive right of Nigerians.

He urged the current administration to avoid complacency, reset its priorities, and implement clear strategies to address insecurity and economic decline. He also called on citizens to remain vigilant and demand accountability from leaders.

Atiku concluded that Nigeria is at a critical crossroads, warning that failure to confront existing challenges could lead to deeper instability.

The statement was signed by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, in Abuja.