Atiku US Ambassador Visit focuses on democracy, security, and bilateral ties, as former VP positions himself for 2027 presidency
Atiku US Ambassador Visit has again placed Nigeria’s former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, back in the political spotlight as he prepares for another bid for the presidency in 2027.
Also read: Atiku Condemns Political Violence in Malami Convoy Attack
The former PDP presidential candidate, who now aligns with the opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), revealed that he held high-level discussions with the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr., during a courtesy visit in Abuja on Tuesday.
Taking to his social media platforms, Atiku stated:
“This afternoon, I had the honour of leading a delegation on a courtesy visit to the United States Ambassador, Richard M. Mills Jr., in Abuja.
Our discussion focused on strengthening the enduring partnership between Nigeria and the United States, particularly in the areas of advancing democracy, security, and promoting shared prosperity.”
The visit, which included former Cross River State governor Liyel Imoke and other political allies, has been widely interpreted as part of Atiku’s strategic positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Atiku has made no secret of his intentions to run again in 2027, insisting that Nigeria must be “rescued from the intensive care unit.
” He remains a vocal critic of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly its economic reforms and democratic record.
He now shares the ADC platform with other major political figures including Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party candidate, and Rotimi Amaechi, former governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transport.
However, political analysts argue that the coalition lacks ideological coherence and appears more focused on removing Tinubu than offering a genuine alternative.
Former presidential aide Laolu Akande criticised the coalition’s composition, saying:
“The opposition bloc is packed with career politicians who’ve been part of the system for decades. There’s nothing fresh or inspiring here.”
There is growing speculation that Peter Obi may eventually pull out of the coalition to again pursue his presidential ambition under the Labour Party, as he did in 2023, when he finished third but gained significant youth support.
Despite these tensions, Atiku continues to project himself as a statesman and elder figure capable of leading Nigeria through its current socio-economic challenges.
His meeting with the US Ambassador is seen as a calculated move to bolster his international image while signalling readiness for a sixth attempt at the presidency.
Also read: Atiku Warns of Authoritarian Shift Under Tinubu
While critics remain sceptical of Atiku’s comeback bid, supporters view his diplomatic engagements and seasoned experience as essential tools in navigating Nigeria’s complex political terrain ahead of 2027.
