Atiku Abubakar

Atiku Abubakar: Biography of a Nigerian Politician and Businessman Atiku Abubakar (born Atiku Abubakar Sadi on November 25, 1946) is a prominent Nigerian politician, businessman, and philanthropist who served as the Vice President of Nigeria from 1999 to 2007, under the presidency of Olusegun Obasanjo. A perennial contender for the Nigerian presidency, he is a leading figure in the People's Democratic Party (PDP). Early Life and Education Abubakar was born in Jada, a village in Adamawa State, Nigeria. His father, Garba Abubakar, was a grain merchant and herdsman, while his mother, Aisha Kande, died at a young age. Following his father's initial resistance to Western education, Atiku was secretly enrolled in the Jada Primary School. He later attended Adamawa Provincial Secondary School in Yola. In 1965, he enrolled at the School of Hygiene in Kano, graduating with a diploma in 1967. That same year, he pursued a diploma in Law at Ahmadu Bello University Institute of Administration, graduating in 1969. Career Progression After his education, Abubakar began his career in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in 1969. He rose through the ranks, serving in various capacities, including Deputy Director. During his time in the NCS, he developed business interests in real estate, logistics, and agriculture. He retired from the Customs Service in April 1989 as a Deputy Director. Abubakar's political career began in the early 1980s. He campaigned for the governorship of Gongola State (now Adamawa and Taraba States) but was unsuccessful. He was a key figure in the formation of the People's Democratic Movement (PDM) and later played a significant role in Nigeria's transition to civilian rule in the late 1990s. In 1998, he was elected Governor of Adamawa State but was chosen by presidential candidate Olusegun Obasanjo to be his running mate shortly before he could be sworn in. Major Achievements (1999–2007) As Nigeria's Vice President from 1999 to 2007, Abubakar oversaw the National Council on Privatization and was central to the administration's economic liberalization policies. He was involved in reforming and selling off hundreds of loss-making state-owned enterprises. He also promoted education and established the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola in 2005, a private educational institution. Notable Works and Political Status Since leaving office as Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has consistently pursued the presidency. He has contested for the office multiple times, often as the candidate for the People's Democratic Party (PDP). His political narratives often focus on unifying the country, restructuring the Nigerian federation, and improving the economy through privatization and investment. He remains a powerful political figure and a major voice in Nigerian democratic discourse. His philanthropic efforts, particularly through AUN and various empowerment programs, underscore his commitment to education and community development. Current Status Atiku Abubakar continues to be an influential leader within the PDP and a respected elder statesman in Nigerian politics. He remains active in public life, commenting on national issues and maintaining his extensive business and educational ventures.