Atiku Rules Out Another Presidential Bid After 2027

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said he will not contest for the Nigerian presidency again after the 2027 general election, describing the upcoming election as his final attempt at becoming president.

Atiku made the declaration during a Hausa-language interview on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, when he was asked whether he would seek the presidency again if he loses the 2027 election.

Asked whether he would seek the presidency again if he loses the 2027 election, Atiku said: “No, I have said it before, right from this election, I will not contest again.”

The declaration is consistent with comments Atiku made in April, when he described the 2027 election as his “last outing” and said the stakes would be higher because of his age.

Atiku, who will be 80 around the 2027 election period, has made several attempts to become president. He contested as a presidential candidate in 2007, 2019 and 2023, and secured the ADC presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 election.

He also urged Nigerians who have Permanent Voter Cards to participate actively in the 2027 election, advising voters to remain at their polling units after voting and monitor the counting process.

The 2027 presidential race is expected to be a major contest, with incumbent President Bola Tinubu seeking re-election and opposition figures, including Atiku and Peter Obi, positioning themselves for the presidency.

Atiku’s latest statement therefore places a clear deadline on his long-running presidential ambition: 2027 will be his final attempt at Nigeria’s presidency, whether he wins or loses.