Datti Baba-Ahmed Says Atiku Has Been Contesting Presidency Since His NYSC Days, Urges Generational Change

Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, former Labour Party vice-presidential candidate, has called for a generational change in Nigeria’s political leadership, warning that the country cannot keep recycling the same politicians if it hopes to move forward.

Speaking on Friday, Datti reflected on his long political engagement with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, noting that Atiku has pursued the presidency for decades. “When I was doing my NYSC, Baba Atiku was an aspirant. In 2018 we contested primaries together, in 2023 again, and in 2027 too?” he said, questioning the repeated bids by longstanding politicians amid Nigeria’s growing social and economic problems.

He argued that the nation’s leadership crisis stems partly from older political figures’ refusal to make way for younger, more dynamic leaders. “There is a need for a new generation of Nigerian leaders, and they exist. Many are ready to lead and offer fresh ideas to move the country forward,” he said.

Datti also criticised the structure of Nigeria’s political system, describing it as unfriendly to credible individuals who genuinely want to serve. He said godfatherism, heavy financial requirements, and empty political promises discourage capable Nigerians from participating.

“Until the political environment becomes more fair and accessible, the country will continue to lose out on the talents of its best minds,” he said.

The former lawmaker concluded that millions of Nigerians are waiting for honest, selfless leadership capable of uniting the nation and addressing its deep-rooted challenges. He stressed that meaningful change will only come when a new generation is allowed to take charge of Nigeria’s future.