Former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep concern over the worsening poverty level in Nigeria, describing it as one of the nation’s greatest challenges.

In a statement posted on his X handle on Saturday to mark the International Day for Poverty Eradication, Atiku lamented that despite Nigeria’s vast human and natural resources, the country remains among the hardest hit by poverty.

The former Vice President said poverty continues to breed other societal problems such as disease, ignorance, insecurity, and hopelessness, calling for urgent, people-centred, and sustainable interventions to address the crisis.

He stated: “Poverty is the greatest enemy that humanity has ever known. Wherever it takes root, whether in the life of an individual or across a society, it breeds other troubles like disease, ignorance, insecurity, and hopelessness.”

Describing the commemoration as “a timely reminder and a call to action,” Atiku urged governments at all levels, civil society organisations, and relevant stakeholders to collaborate in implementing lasting solutions that will empower citizens and lift communities out of poverty.

He added:“At both government and community levels, we must take the fight against poverty to every home, every community, and every school so that the ordinary Nigerian becomes part of the solution.”

Quoting a Nigerian proverb, Atiku said, “When the poor man is hungry, peace sleeps outside”, emphasising that ending poverty is essential to restoring freedom, dignity, and peace in the country.

Atiku’s remarks followed the release of a World Bank Nigeria Development Update report, which revealed that 139 million Nigerians still live in poverty amid rising food inflation and insecurity.

The World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Mathew Verghis, disclosed this at a recent event in Abuja, stating:

“In 2025, we estimate that 139 million Nigerians live in poverty. The challenge is clear: how to translate the gains from the reforms into better living standards for all.

“Many households continue to face hardship, with poverty and food insecurity remaining high.

“Food inflation remains a major concern: poor households who spend up to 70 per cent of their income on food have seen the cost of a basic food basket rise fivefold between 2019 and 2024.”

Atiku, therefore, reiterated the need for decisive and coordinated actions to ensure that economic reforms translate into real improvements in the living standards of ordinary Nigerians.

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