ADC Presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar
Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has unveiled plans to introduce a new fuel subsidy system aimed at reducing the cost of petrol and easing economic pressure on Nigerian families.
Atiku said the proposed subsidy would not return Nigeria to the former import-dependent model, but would focus on supporting locally refined petroleum products as part of his “People First” agenda.
The former vice president made the remarks in a statement on Thursday following his visit to Ondo State, where he joined party leaders to welcome new members into the ADC.
According to him, the policy is designed to strengthen domestic production, support Nigerian refineries, create jobs and make fuel more affordable for citizens.
“At the heart of that agenda is my firm commitment to make life affordable again for Nigerian families,” Atiku said.
“That includes restoring fuel subsidy—not the old import-dependent system, but a targeted production subsidy that supports fuel refined here in Nigeria, strengthens domestic production and is designed to reduce the price Nigerians pay at the pump.”
He explained that lower fuel prices would have a wider impact on the economy by reducing transportation costs, easing the movement of agricultural products from farms to markets and supporting small businesses.
“When fuel becomes more affordable, transportation costs can ease. The cost of moving food from farms to markets can come down. Small businesses can breathe again. Families can keep more of their hard-earned money,” he added.
Atiku said the focus of his economic plan is to place the welfare of Nigerians at the centre of government policies.
“That is the purpose of our People First policy: put the welfare of Nigerians at the centre of government,” he said.
The ADC presidential hopeful also expressed satisfaction with the reception he received in Ondo State, where he said the growing support for the party showed increasing confidence in its message.
“The tremendous reception we received in Ondo State today, as we welcomed new members into our great party, the ADC, was deeply encouraging. The enthusiasm was unmistakable,” Atiku stated.
He reaffirmed that his message to Nigerians remains focused on boosting local production, creating employment opportunities and reducing the burden of rising living costs.
“Our message remains clear: produce here, refine here, create Nigerian jobs, lower the cost of fuel and make life affordable again,” he said.
