Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has promised to steer the country through a prosperous path if given the opportunity to lead it in 2023.
In his speech during the formal declaration of his intention to contest during the next presidential election, on Wednesday in Abuja, Atiku who described Nigeria as a sinking ship, said under his leadership, he would sail it to a brighter course.
“I offer myself to rescue the sinking ship. Under my captainship, this ship will sail to a brighter course by the grace of God,” he noted.
He said the forthcoming election offered the country the choice of whether to continue on the path of division and backwardness or that of unity and progress.
He said, “The 2023 election is not just like the usual elections; it is a referendum to decide whether we want greatness or continuous destruction. It is a choice between two paths: the path of unity and progress or the path of division and backwardness,” Atiku said.
“We need a new kind of leadership that will steer us to a positive path. In 2023, we want a President who has ideas on how to fix Nigeria. We want a president who understands, inspires, and is empathetic.
“I have contested for the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria a couple of times in the past. My enduring persistence is borne out of my passion to rekindle the Nigerian dream that I was privileged to live.
“Nigeria is a land of possibility. There is no challenging background that will make any Nigerian give up. I am a living witness to what is possible in Nigeria.
“You and I know that Nigeria is in dire need of visionary leadership. Our fundamental principles and purpose as a nation have never been challenged as it is today. Presently, Nigeria is a sinking ship; it must be rescued urgently. That is why I am happy to announce my candidacy for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
“However, this journey is not mine alone. It is a journey I am taking for all Nigerians. It is also a journey to a destination I planned with my late great mentor, Major General Shehu Musa Yar’adua, and with my beloved compatriot, the late, and great, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola. May their souls rest in peace.”
