Dr. Sani Adamu, who serves as the Strategic Adviser on Support Groups to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, says many support groups are currently working across Nigeria to promote his presidential ambition.
In an interview with Billy Graham Abel in Yola, Adamu spoke about the activities of these nationwide support groups, possible political coalitions, electoral reforms, and political developments in Adamawa State and Nigeria. He also explained why he believes Atiku is the best prepared candidate for the presidency.
Support groups across the country
Adamu explained that hundreds of support groups exist in different states and in the Federal Capital Territory. Some of these groups have been active for years, others became inactive after previous elections, while new ones are forming as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
According to him, the current focus is to organize and bring these groups under a single structure so their activities and messages can be coordinated nationwide. Because new groups are still joining and older ones are being reviewed, he said it is too early to state the exact number.
He stressed that the most important factor is not the number of groups but how effective, disciplined, and focused they are.
How the groups are formed
Adamu said the groups are formed through a mixed approach. Some emerged naturally from grassroots supporters, while others were deliberately created to strengthen support in strategic areas.
However, for any group to be officially recognized, it must fully support Atiku’s presidential ambition and follow the campaign’s objectives and messaging guidelines. He added that unified talking points are used nationwide to maintain consistency while also adjusting messages based on feedback from voters.
Debate about age in politics
Addressing concerns from some youth groups that Atiku should step aside for a younger candidate, Adamu said the discussion about generational leadership is understandable because young people want greater participation in governance.
However, he argued that age should not be seen as a weakness when it is combined with experience, competence, and wisdom. According to him, young people bring energy, but leadership also requires guidance and institutional knowledge.
He said a balanced approach is needed where younger leaders are gradually mentored and given responsibilities rather than replacing older leaders abruptly.
Adamu also noted that Atiku has consistently supported younger politicians during his career and remains open to arrangements that benefit Nigeria’s future.
Why Atiku is prepared for the presidency
Adamu described Nigeria as being at a critical point and said Atiku’s experience makes him well suited to lead the country. He pointed out that the former vice president has experience in both government and private business, which gives him a broad understanding of economic systems.
According to him, Atiku’s economic plan focuses on careful and honest management of reforms rather than sudden policy changes that could worsen hardship. Key priorities would include economic diversification beyond oil, disciplined financial management, and policies that restore investor confidence.
On security and unemployment, Adamu said the strategy would include better intelligence-based security operations, job creation through the private sector, expansion of agriculture, and programs to support youth businesses.
He added that rebuilding trust between citizens and government institutions would also be a major priority.
First 100 days in office
Adamu said that within the first 100 days of an Atiku administration, Nigerians should expect improvements in security coordination, economic stabilization policies, stronger institutions, clearer separation of powers, and more accountability in leadership.
He emphasized that trust in government can only return when leaders consistently match their words with actions.
Political alliances and coalitions
Adamu said political alliances are common in democratic systems and that Atiku understands coalition politics well. He explained that a strong candidate and a strong party structure must work together for electoral success.
He added that Atiku’s party, the ADC, is open to forming alliances with other parties if it helps defeat the ruling APC and serves the national interest.
Concerns about the electoral process
Adamu expressed concerns about the credibility of future elections if electronic transmission of results is not fully implemented. He argued that relying on manual processes could create opportunities for disputes and manipulation.
He also criticized parts of the amended electoral law, describing them as a step backward compared with the 2022 Electoral Act. According to him, electronic transmission of results should be clearly required by law and civil society groups should play a stronger monitoring role.
Lessons from recent elections
Adamu said the recent elections in the Federal Capital Territory should remind Nigerians to remain vigilant. He noted that democracy works best when citizens actively participate rather than remain passive.
He encouraged voters to monitor elections, engage in grassroots political activities, and protect their votes within the law.
Defection of Governor Fintiri
Reacting to the decision of Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri to join the APC, Adamu described it as a political strategy rather than a change of political belief.
He argued that controlling the state government does not necessarily mean controlling the loyalty of voters. According to him, Atiku’s influence in Adamawa is rooted in long-standing relationships with communities.
Adamu also said such defections highlight a wider issue in Nigerian politics, where ideological commitment is often weak and political decisions are frequently driven by personal interests.
Message to Nigerian voters
Adamu urged Nigerians to carefully consider the country’s direction as the 2027 election approaches. He said citizens must reflect on where the nation has come from, its current challenges, and the path forward.
He compared leadership to navigating a ship, saying that when a ship is struggling, the crew must decide whether to continue drifting or change direction.
According to him, the 2027 election will be a critical moment for Nigeria’s future.
If you want, I can also make a much shorter summary (5–10 key points) or rewrite it in very simple English for easier reading.
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