Atiku Abubakar Formally Declares Presidential Interest, Promises Nigerian Youths ''Safe And Secured Lives''

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar on Wednesday  formally declared his intention to run for the presidency in 2015. He promised to ensure “safe and secured lives’’ for the Nigerian youth.

“You, the youth, endowed with fresh ideas, bubbling energy and a passionate desire for change; you are the hope of this nation. Without you, we really can’t talk of a future with hope and confidence.

“That is why the 2015 election is about you. It is about how to ensure that you live safe and secured lives. It is about making sure that you feed well.

“Making sure you receive quality and affordable education and training, secure good jobs, support your own families and contribute positively to the development of our country.

“This is what a responsive and responsible government owes its citizens; this is what our generation owes upcoming generations,’’ he said.

“This never-say-die attitude gives me immense hope and it is one of the reasons why I can never give up on Nigeria.’’

“I was born in a southern Adamawa village to a nomadic trader and his wife who was a farmer. I grew up as a shepherd and farm boy and the only child.

“At 11, I lost my father. But with the help of my mother and relatives, I pulled out of the doldrums and faced the future with uncommon confidence.’’

He said that he built a “solid reputation as a diligent, hardworking, honest and innovative staff’’ during his 20 years in public service.

Atiku declared his presidential bid at the Yar’Adua Centre, flanked by party faithful, including past governors and serving members of the parliament.

Abubakar is the first presidential candidate to publicly declare his intention ahead of the February 2015 presidential polls. Culled