Atiku Abubakar” />
By Bayo Wahab
Paul Ibe, the media advisor to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has humorously suggested that Atiku deserves a Nobel Prize for his persistent efforts to secure Nigeria’s presidency.
Atiku, who has pursued the presidency since 1992, remains a prominent figure in discussions surrounding the 2027 presidential race, despite not having officially announced his candidacy.
During an appearance on Trust TV’s ‘Daily Politics’ this past Thursday, Ibe challenged the notion that Atiku has run for president excessively.
He clarified, “For the record, Atiku Abubakar has officially been on the ballot three times: in 2007 under the Action Congress, and then in 2019 and 2023 representing the Peoples Democratic Party.”
When reminded that Atiku has sought the presidency five times-in 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023-Ibe responded, “If anything, Atiku deserves a Nobel Prize for his unwavering ambition,” emphasizing that “He genuinely believes he has valuable contributions to make.”
Ibe further explained that Atiku’s motivation stems from a deep sense of duty to Nigeria, a country that has significantly shaped his life.
“Consider his own words and writings,” Ibe noted. “Atiku feels a profound responsibility to give back to Nigeria, which provided him with educational opportunities in his youth and a career start in customs. After leaving customs, he ventured into business, anticipating Nigeria’s economic trajectory and establishing a company in oil and gas logistics.”
Highlighting Atiku’s financial success, Ibe pointed out that he was already a billionaire before assuming the vice presidency in 1999. He also revealed that Atiku personally financed the purchase of Wadata Plaza, the PDP’s national headquarters in Abuja.
“Atiku’s wealth was such that he single-handedly acquired Wadata Plaza for the PDP, underscoring his financial strength prior to his government service,” Ibe added.